School Transport Safety: Ministry Releases List of Licensed Drivers and Companies

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

Report by H Naser

As the new school year approaches, the Ministry of Communications and Transport has published a comprehensive list of licensed drivers and companies authorised to provide school transportation services. Parents are urged to prioritize choosing only licensed transportation options to ensure the safety and well-being of their children.

The list, available on the Ministry of Communications and Transport's website, includes 498 licenses for school transport services. Of these, 423 licenses are for individual drivers, while 75 licenses are held by companies operating in the transportation sector.

The Ministry emphasised that the publication of this list is part of its ongoing efforts to regulate the school transport sector, providing safe and reliable services that meet the needs of schools and parents alike.

Parents are urged to carefully select licensed school transport vehicles to safeguard their children's safety and protect their rights. Choosing a licensed vehicle fosters trust between parents and service providers, ensuring adherence to the Ministry's stringent safety standards and requirements.

The Ministry's announcement comes as school transport services in Bahrain are gearing up for a busy season, with increased competition and a focus on online advertising. Bus drivers interviewed earlier by our sister newspaper Alayam reported a surge in registrations for school transport services since the beginning of August.

Prices vary depending on the distance to the school and the grade level, ranging from 15 Bahraini dinars for elementary schools located close to residential areas to 40 Dinars for secondary schools. The intense competition has led to a slight decrease in prices, particularly with the influx of retired individuals joining the sector.