Mumbai: School bus operators threaten protest over poor condition of roads

Students have a tough time getting to school because of waterlogged, pothole-ridden roads, like this one at Dahisar subway

Commuting on city's roads is no fun for anyone, least of all for the 1,000 bus drivers who ferry thousands of children to school and back daily, come rain or shine. But as the condition of roads goes from bad to worse, school bus operators have decided to protest on Thursday, when they will block roads all over Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane and Bhiwandi with their buses.

Anil Garg, chief of School Bus Transporters' Association

The School Bus Transporters' Association, which runs around 1,000 buses, said that the authorities had turned a deaf ear to all their complaints. Ridden with potholes and waterlogged throughout the monsoon, the bad roads have made it difficult for operators to maintain the buses properly. Moreover, it has also made commuting difficult for schoolkids, delaying their return home and leaving parents anxious everyday.

Anil Garg, president of the association, said, "As school bus service providers, we are asked to take care of so many things to ensure the safety of children. There are strict regulations to get the permit. But now, with the road conditions, the government itself is putting children's life in danger. Damage to vehicles is another headache. Because of pathetic road conditions and so many potholes, it is becoming difficult to maintain the buses with such regular damage. Moreover, drivers have to drive slowly and are stuck in traffic most of the time, so delays have also become regular."

Garg is now kicking off the movement to put pressure on the authorities to step up and take action. He will also appeal to other transport associations and other private vehicle services to join them in the rasta roko. "I have appealed to luxury bus services, as well as other private bus service providers to join us, as everybody is facing unnecessary and expensive vehicle damage due to the dismal road condition," said Garg.

He also assured that the children will not face any trouble due to the protest, as it will take place once the students have been dropped.

Schools also support the move. Ajay Patil, president of Private Schools' Federation from Navi Mumbai, said, "Their grievance is genuine. Thanks to bad roads, children are subjected to an unnecessary circus everyday. Something has to be done about it."