Amritsar: The Amritsar district administration has issued a formal prohibition against auto-rickshaws carrying more school children than their sanctioned seating capacity. The order, effective immediately, comes after persistent reports of traffic violations and safety risks associated with overcrowded transport vehicles in the city.
Additional District Magistrate Rupinder Pal Singh enacted the directive under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). Officials stated that many drivers have been transporting students in numbers that far exceed legal limits, creating significant hazards on busy roadways.
“Such overcrowding not only causes traffic congestion on busy roads but also increases the risk of accidents,” the administration noted in its official communication. The order affirmed that the safety of the students is the primary justification for the move.
The directive also places responsibility on educational institutions. School principals and headmasters have been instructed to actively educate parents regarding the dangers of overcrowded transport. The administration declared that cooperation between schools and guardians is essential to ensure safety protocols are followed.
Authorities maintained that regular inspections will be conducted to monitor compliance. “Strict action may be taken against anyone found violating the instructions,” the administration stated, confirming that the prohibitory measures will remain in force until at least May 6.
