The Gurugram administration has mandated that schools refrain from sending buses along waterlogged routes during periods of heavy rainfall. This directive aims to ensure the safety of students while travelling to and from school. Issued by the District Disaster Management Authority, Gurugram, under the oversight of District Magistrate Uttam Singh, the regulations will be effective until September 30, 2026, or until further notice.

This initiative comes in response to multiple incidents where school buses became trapped in traffic and flooded areas, leading to students having to walk through standing water at designated pick-up and drop-off points. The move underscores the need for enhanced safety measures during the vulnerable monsoon season.

Real-Time Updates on Routes

Under the newly implemented system, the Gurugram Traffic Police will provide continuous updates regarding school transportation routes on rainy days. Routes will be categorised as clear, slow-moving, or unsafe due to waterlogging. Schools will receive these updates in the morning, midday, and afternoon, particularly when rainfall occurs or alerts are issued by the India Meteorological Department.

In the event of heavy rain making a route unsafe, a flash update will be disseminated within thirty minutes to ensure that schools can make informed decisions regarding bus movements. Schools are required to communicate these updates to their transport teams, allowing for adjustments in bus routing as necessary.

If a route is identified as waterlogged, buses are obligated to utilise an alternative route. Should there be no safe options available, students must remain within the school premises under the supervision of staff members, and parents will be notified immediately regarding this change.

Child Safety Protocols at Bus Stops

Schools have been instructed not to drop students at unattended bus stops or locations that are waterlogged. The established protocol requires that children be handed over solely to their parents or authorised guardians. Additionally, every school bus is mandated to have a staff escort, adequate drinking water, and a driver specifically instructed to avoid navigating through flooded areas or underpasses.

Schools are responsible for notifying parents via SMS or school applications if there are alterations in bus routes or alterations to the scheduled dispersal time. This communication is critical to ensure that parents are kept informed of their children’s transportation arrangements during adverse weather conditions.

On days characterized by heavy rainfall or alerts from the IMD, Haryana Roadways will keep available backup buses in locations that provide all-weather access. These buses will be equipped to assist in safely transporting children if a primary school bus encounters difficulties such as breakdowns or becomes stranded due to waterlogging.

Appointment of Safety Officers

Each school is required to designate a Transport In-charge or Route Safety Officer, tasked with overseeing adherence to the newly established safety regulations. This personnel will play a crucial role in ensuring that all safety protocols are followed meticulously, especially during the monsoon season.

The administration’s order also emphasises that agencies responsible for addressing waterlogging must prioritise the clearance of bus routes and the areas surrounding school gates. This coordination is essential to provide a safer environment for students travelling to and from school.

Through these measures, the Gurugram administration intends to ensure the safety and well-being of students during the challenging conditions brought upon by the monsoon season. Faculty and parents alike are encouraged to cooperate with the new guidelines to support the ongoing safety initiatives.

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