Maharashtra school bus operators strongly oppose the state government’s recent directive to commence classes for pre-primary to grade IV at 9 am, foreseeing logistical challenges and potential fare increases. The operators contend that this scheduling adjustment will subject school buses to morning rush hour congestion, causing unavoidable delays.

The government’s decision, outlined in a recent order from the state school education department, was prompted by Governor Ramesh Bais expressing reservations about early class timings during a speech in December of the previous year. The directive mandates all private and public schools to alter the timings for pre-primary and primary sections, initiating classes at 9 am and concluding at 2 pm.

Ramesh Maniyan, Treasurer of the School and Company Bus Owners’ Association, voiced their opposition, emphasizing that the government’s unilateral decision, made in response to parental concerns, could result in a 25% cost increase for bus operators. He highlighted the current advantage of sparse morning traffic before 9 am, which would be compromised if schools shift their start time.

The government’s order cited changes in student lifestyles, such as late bedtimes, exposure to loud music, and easy access to entertainment, contributing to insufficient and disrupted sleep patterns. While addressing these concerns, the decision has sparked a conflict with school bus operators who fear practical difficulties and financial burdens arising from the altered school schedule.