Mumbai: School bus operators resist state govt’s 9 am class start time decision

The new policy aims to address concerns about students’ sleep patterns and lifestyle changes. Representation pic

The government's decision to start classes at 9 am is encountering significant resistance from school bus operators. The School Bus Operators/Owners Association has suggested that they may have to increase fees by at least 25-40 per cent, as their expenses are expected to rise if the policy is implemented. The change in timings would require them to operate extra buses during peak hours, resulting in higher operational costs, including additional fuel costs and longer work hours for the bus staff, the latter claimed.

The new policy, which aims to address concerns about students' sleep patterns and lifestyle changes, was announced last week on February 8. However, the bus operators argue that this will also lead to health issues and fatigue among school students, who will be forced to spend longer durations travelling to school during peak hour traffic jams.

Despite the government's stance on lack of sleep among students, the School and Company Bus Owners' Association is vehemently opposed to the new policy. Anil Garg, President of the School Bus Owners Association (SBOA), expressed strong concerns about the government resolution (GR) mandating that schools begin classes for pre-primary and primary sections only by 9 am. Garg highlighted the lack of consultation with stakeholders such as school management, parents, and school bus contractors, questioning the basis of the decision. He emphasised that this directive not only threatens to escalate operational costs but also disrupts the established schedules of many working parents.

Parents schedule will be disturbed

Garg added, "The feasibility of managing school buses for two-shift schools amidst road conditions and child safety considerations has not been adequately addressed. The scheduling clashes during peak hours, with buses making four trips a day for arrival and departure, will exacerbate traffic congestion during office hours. Additionally, parents' work schedules will be disrupted as they cannot leave for the office until their children are at home. This might also impact students' health, due to longer commute times which could lead to increased stress and fatigue.

The government should prioritise addressing all concerns and consulting with stakeholders before implementing such decisions. Unlike in north India, where weather conditions may restrict outdoor activities in the early morning, such constraints are not applicable here in Maharashtra. The SBOA opposes this move and warns of potential fee increases ranging from 25 per cent to 40 per cent if schools enforce it. We urge the government to convene a meeting with school management associations to explore alternative solutions collaboratively."

When contacted, a senior official from the school education department said, "The GR mentions that schools having issues with implementing the change of school timing can discuss the matter. Many schools have later shifts, so it's not there this is something new. Only those classes which started at 7-7-30 or 8 am will be started on or post 9 am. However, despite this, if there are any genuine issues, we are willing to discuss it and resolve it."

What parents say

Sanjeevani Kolte, a parent and resident of Colaba, voiced her concerns, saying, "If school bus fees are increased further, we'll have no choice but to personally drop our children off. We'll have to wait and see what unfolds." Hrishita Shah, another parent from Borivli, shared a similar sentiment, saying, "As working parents, we already have a fixed early morning school routine for our children. Initially, we were worried about adjusting to the new schedule, and now with the potential increase in school bus fees, it adds another layer of concern. Either way, as parents, we'll have to endure - first, figuring out a new schedule and then potentially paying extra."

25-40 %
Expected hike in school bus fees