Sindh Bans CNG and LPG Cylinders in School Vans Under New Safety Rules

The Sindh Education Department has introduced a set of strict safety directives for private schools covering all vehicles used to transport students, including a ban on CNG and LPG cylinders, according to an official announcement.

The directives, issued on the instructions of the provincial education minister, apply both to school vans arranged by educational institutions and to those hired directly by parents. Authorities have also prohibited the use of bottles, cans or other makeshift containers to feed petrol directly into vehicle engines instead of using designated fuel tanks, citing serious safety risks.

Under the new rules, student transport vehicles must not exceed their authorized seating capacity. Students are barred from travelling on footboards, hanging from moving vehicles, or sitting and standing in unsafe positions while in transit.

Every vehicle carrying students must additionally hold a valid fitness certificate issued by the Sindh Transport Department, with a copy kept inside the vehicle for inspection. Private schools have been instructed to ensure full compliance with these requirements and all relevant laws.

The department warned that violations or negligence would result in action against the responsible school administrations under applicable regulations. The measures come amid persistent concerns over the safety of children commuting to and from school in privately operated vehicles.

The announcement adds to a growing push by provincial authorities to tighten oversight of student transport, placing responsibility for compliance squarely on school administrations as well as on parents who arrange their own vehicles.