Mumbai School Bus Fare Hike: Parents Shift To Auto Rickshaws Despite Safety Concerns

The State School Bus Union has proposed an 18 per cent increase in bus fares for the new academic year, which is expected to make school transportation significantly more expensive. A final decision on this proposal will be taken in March, according to a Lokmat report.

Each school determines its bus fares annually based on administrative and parental expectations. The School Bus Committee, led by the principal and consisting of parents, teachers, RTO officers, and bus operators, makes the final decision after reviewing factors such as bus type, seating capacity, and route distance. This leads to variations in fare rates across different schools.

Currently, school bus fees range from Rs. 800 to Rs. 3,000 per month. If the proposed increase is approved, the fares may rise to between Rs. 945 and Rs. 3,500 per month. Many parents are already concerned that this hike will put additional financial strain on them, prompting opposition to the proposal.

In the past year, the Mumbai Central Sub-Regional Transport Office (RTO) has inspected over 700 school buses and taken action against those found violating regulations. Fines amounting to Rs. 11.83 lakh have been collected, highlighting the authorities' ongoing efforts to ensure compliance and safety.

Parents Turning To Auto Rickshaws For Affordability

With rising school bus fares and increasing traffic congestion, many parents are now opting for auto rickshaws to transport their children to and from school. The monthly cost for a student's rickshaw travel ranges from Rs. 1,200 to Rs. 1,500, making it a more affordable alternative for families struggling with high bus fees. Additionally, some parents have turned to vans for student transportation.

Ongoing roadworks in various areas have worsened traffic congestion, causing significant delays for school buses. Afternoon-session students travelling to school and morning-session students returning home are the most affected. Many parents believe rickshaws are a more convenient option as they navigate traffic more efficiently.

Safety Risks Associated With Auto Rickshaws

Despite their affordability, auto rickshaws pose safety concerns for schoolchildren. The RTO does not permit school transportation by rickshaws, yet many parents continue to use them due to lower costs. Rickshaw drivers are expected to ensure student safety, but overcrowding remains an issue. Often, four to five children are transported in a single rickshaw, although some vigilant parents insist on a three-student limit. Some rickshaw drivers have installed safety doors, but risks still remain.

Meanwhile, van drivers are often seen cramming children into vehicles, sometimes placing their school bags on the roof or in the trunk. Parents worry that safety measures are not being strictly followed, particularly after initial concerns fade.

As school bus fares continue to rise, affordability remains a major concern for parents, pushing them towards rickshaws and vans. However, the safety of students should remain a top priority, and authorities must address the risks associated with alternative modes of transport.