Airoli kidnapping-murder: Vashi RTO might install CCTV, GPS in school buses

Days after seven-year-old Franshela Vaz was kidnapped and murdered by her maternal uncle in cold blood, officials from Vashi Regional Transport Office (RTO) said they would be holding meetings with various school managements and bus transport associations to devise measures to enhance security of children travelling in school buses.

Airoli kidnapping: Uncle killed 7-yr-old in cold blood, consoled her mum

Pic for representation only

Moreover, the authorities are also mulling installation of CCTV cameras and GPS trackers in the buses. "A few days ago, representatives of a political party approached us and recommended installation of CCTV cameras and GPS trackers in school buses. We will now discuss this proposal with the Transport department," said Sanjay Dhaygude, deputy regional transport officer, Vashi RTO.

Also read: 8-year-old kidnapped by a known person, say cops

Stating that a meeting in this regard will be held in the coming weeks, Dhaygude added that various security parameters would be discussed during the meetings. "People have already conveyed their suggestions, including dropping children close to their homes or asking parents to pick them up from the drop points," he said.

‘Issue GR'
Commenting on the security measures suggested by the RTO, a few school bus owners said they are ready to make the necessary additions following a Government Resolution (GR). "If a GR is issued by the state, making it mandatory to have CCTV cameras and GPS trackers in school buses, we will do the needful," said Kiran Dhawale, who owns a company that provides school buses.

The case
On June 29, Franshela Vaz went missing from outside her building after alighting from the school bus at Airoli. She was abducted by her uncle, who later took her to an isolated spot near Ghodbunder Road, strangled her, and then dumped her body in the nearby bushes.