As schools reopen this week, the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport (GDRT) warns against unsafe scholar transport.

According to the department’s head of communications, Melitah Madiba, unroadworthy vehicles or those operating without valid permits will be immediately impounded.

MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela emphasises that the safety of learners is non-negotiable.

“For the next nine months, millions of children will depend on drivers to get them to school safely. Every time a child enters a vehicle or walks near a road, their life is in someone else’s hands. We will not allow unroadworthy vehicles or unlicensed operators to transport our children,” she said.

From January 12, scholar transport vehicles will undergo intensive inspections at schools, along transport routes, and during peak travel times. Vehicles found to be unroadworthy or operating without the required permits will be impounded immediately, while drivers without valid licences will face arrest.

Parents are urged to take an active role in ensuring their children’s safety.

“Your money gives you a voice. Do not pay for transport in a vehicle without proper seating, functioning seatbelts, or that is visibly unsafe. Report unsafe vehicles to us,” the MEC said.

Unsafe scholar transport can be reported by calling 086 140 0800 or 012 999 5407.

All scholar transport vehicles must:

• Have a valid licence disc and roadworthy certificate
• Be driven by a person with a valid driving licence
• Provide proper, fixed seating for every child
• Have functioning seatbelts for all passengers
• Not exceed licensed passenger capacity
• Be free of critical defects, including brakes, tyres, lights, and windscreen

MEC Diale-Tlabela added that motorists should exercise caution near school zones and scholar transport vehicles.

“You might not have children in your car, but you share the road with them. That child crossing the road could be distracted or running late. The responsibility to watch out for them is yours. Government is enforcing safety, but every driver, parent, and operator must do their part – it starts with you.”