Sindh bans CNG and LPG cylinders in school vans, orders fitness certificates
The Sindh Education Department has banned CNG and LPG cylinders in school vans across Karachi and other parts of the province. Private schools have been told to follow the new safety rules or face action.
- CNG and LPG cylinders are banned in school vans in Sindh.
- Vans may not carry more students than their approved seating capacity.
- A provincial fitness certificate is mandatory, with a copy kept in the vehicle.
- Schools that violate the directives face action.
The Sindh government has imposed a strict ban on CNG and LPG cylinders in school vans across Karachi and other parts of the province, as part of measures to improve student safety.
According to Minute Mirror, the directives were issued to private schools on the instructions of Sindh Education Minister Syed Sardar Ali Shah, who stressed that transport operators must strictly follow safety regulations. Geo News also reported that the Education Department issued the safety directives to private schools on the minister's instructions.
The rules also prohibit refuelling school vans with petrol through unsafe methods. Supplying fuel directly to vehicle engines through bottles, cans or other containers has been declared dangerous and is prohibited.
Schools and transport operators must not carry more students than the approved seating capacity of a vehicle. Children are also barred from travelling while standing on the footboards of vans.
The government has made a valid fitness certificate mandatory for all school transport vehicles. Every school van must have a certificate issued by the provincial government, and a copy must be kept inside the vehicle for inspection.
The Education Department instructed private institutions to ensure that their school transport operators comply with safety standards. Officials warned that action would be taken against school managements that violate the new instructions.
The department said student safety is a priority and that no compromise will be accepted on transport regulations. According to Minute Mirror, the measures aim to prevent accidents and reduce risks from unsafe fuel systems, overcrowded vehicles and dangerous travelling practices.
Why it matters
Students and parents in Karachi and across Sindh use school vans every day, so the rules on cylinders, seating and fitness certificates directly affect children's daily travel.
