Scholar transport operators educated about regulation 250 and its implications
Gauteng Education Transport Service (GETS) held a workshop to educate drivers on a regulation that prohibits them from transporting children in bakkies.
On Thursday, 11 May, a regulation about the transportation of schoolchildren came into effect.
Regulation 250 of the National Road Traffic Act (NRTA), states that “No person will be allowed to transport children in the goods compartment of a vehicle for reward,” explains Nomphithi Mtshali principal officer at Gauteng Traffic Police.
Mtshali says that there will be serious consequences for anyone who does not comply.
“Parents need to understand that this is dangerous.
“The aim is always to protect our children from harm.”
Jabulani Radebe, chairperson of the Scholar Transport Association, says it is the parents’ responsibility to ensure drivers comply.
“You need to know what kind of car is picking your child up every morning.
“Some parents don’t even know the names of the drivers.”
Thabo Ndlovu, member of the executive committee of greater Brakpan, says he found the workshop to be very helpful.
“Most of us want to comply with the law – that is why we appreciate the opportunity to be educated,” he said.
Drivers who are not members of any association, adds Radebe, are usually the ones who break the law.
“We keep a close watch on our people, and when they falter we handle it.”
He encourages parents to ask drivers if they belong to any association, in order to make it easier to report any misconduct.
