The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has unveiled plans to introduce new traffic regulations for the transportation of school children.
In a post shared on Wednesday, January 15, NTSA unveiled the Draft Traffic (School Transport) Rules 2025, outlining new measures to enhance the safety of school children during transportation.
NTSA has directed schools to implement the use of vehicle attendants in school transport vehicles to assist with ensuring the safety and well-being of students during transit.
Another key measure will be the introduction of crossing guards, who will be responsible for directing, controlling, and managing traffic at school entry and exit points, as well as designated pedestrian crossings.
Additionally, all school buses will be equipped with a ‘stop signal arm’ to warn other drivers when students are being picked up or dropped off.
“Stop signal arm- a device that can be extended outward from the side of a school bus to provide a signal to other motorists not to pass the bus because it has stopped to load or discharge students,” NTSA stated.
In addition to the new traffic rules, NTSA emphasized the importance of the public’s role in safeguarding school children by adhering to traffic regulations.
“Children learn both safe and unsafe behaviors by watching others. They will not use zebra crossings or footpaths if adults don’t use them. Protect them by engaging in safe road user behaviour,” the safety authority reiterated.
Given the potential dangers during pick-up and drop-off hours in school zones, NTSA stressed the need for measures to ensure the safety of children.
School drivers were therefore urged to pick up and drop off students at designated points to ensure their safety.
In accordance with the new regulations, drivers and conductors of vehicles transporting school children are required to adhere to the following checklist of rules during the back-to-school period:
1. The vehicle is roadworthy with valid inspection certificate, RSL and insurance.
2. The speed limiter is transmitting data to the NTSA Intelligent Road Safety Management System (IRSMS).
3. The vehicle is serviced and parts including brakes, tires, lights, side mirrors are all functional.
4. The Driving License and PSV badges are valid.
5. All children have their seat belts on.
6. No excess passengers.
7. No child/body parts are hanging outside the vehicle.
8. Report if a child is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
NTSA recommended a 30 km/h speed limit within school zones to help protect children, as vehicles traveling at higher speeds significantly increase the risk of injury.