The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has voiced strong concern over what it describes as a troubling disregard for traffic regulations among private scholar transport operators.
The warning follows nationwide law enforcement operations conducted last week, during which 5,386 scholar transport vehicles were stopped and inspected. Of these, 1,028 were found to be operating in contravention of existing traffic laws.
According to the RTMC, the non-compliant vehicles included 589 privately owned vehicles, 146 contracted directly by parents, 95 contracted by the Department of Transport, 11 contracted by the Department of Basic Education, and seven that were school-owned.
Inspectors found that many vehicles were operating without the required public scholar transport permits. In several instances, drivers either did not possess valid driving licences and Professional Driving Permits (PrDPs) or failed to produce them when requested. Authorities also identified numerous mechanical defects, particularly involving brakes and tyres — issues that pose serious safety risks to learners.
The RTMC has issued a stern warning to operators who continue to flout regulations intended to safeguard pupils.
The condition of scholar transport remains a sensitive national issue, with ongoing concerns about its implications for learners’ rights to safety, life and access to education.
