The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has reaffirmed strict operating hours for school buses as part of efforts to enhance learner safety on the roads.
In a notice issued on Friday, January 9, the authority emphasized that school buses must follow a fixed schedule, noting that they are not allowed to operate before 6am or after 6pm.
NTSA explained that travel during very early mornings and late evenings poses heightened safety risks.
School Bus Hours Under Scrutiny as NTSA Issues Fresh Directive. Photo: Courtesy.
The directive comes a day after the National Police Service raised concerns over a surge in road accidents nationwide at the start of 2026.
In a statement released on Wednesday, January 7, the police revealed that more than 30 people had already lost their lives in traffic accidents within the first week of the year.
The police service cautioned that the rising number of accidents has had devastating effects on victims and their families.
The National Police Service said it is deeply concerned by the surge in road crashes, which have claimed at least 31 lives within the first six days of 2026.
The service noted that the incidents have also resulted in serious injuries, destruction of property, and widespread suffering.
Police described the situation as alarming and emphasized that it constitutes a crisis requiring urgent, collective, and decisive action to prevent further loss of life.
The National Police Service said most recent accidents were caused by preventable human errors, including reckless driving, speeding, drunk driving, and violations by boda boda riders.
While officers were already on the roads during the festive season, the Inspector General has now ordered an immediate nationwide crackdown to address the surge in crashes.
