24 scholar transport vehicles impounded in Polokwane operation

The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety has intensified efforts to improve learner safety on the roads, impounding 24 scholar transport vehicles during a Safer Back to School campaign conducted in Polokwane on Tuesday, 15 January 2025.

The operation, led by MEC Violet Mathye, focused on enforcing compliance with scholar transport regulations.

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Of the vehicles impounded, four were seven-seaters, 20 were minibuses, and one was a discontinued vehicle. In addition, one driver was issued with a summons for illegally conveying passengers in a light delivery vehicle (LDV).

MEC Mathye expressed concern that some learners were forced to walk long distances after non-compliant operators avoided law enforcement. “We are worried that children are being put at risk because some operators choose to evade compliance instead of prioritising safety,” she said.

She urged parents and guardians to ensure that vehicles transporting learners meet all legal requirements.

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According to the department, compliant scholar transport vehicles must be roadworthy, properly licensed, not overloaded, clearly marked, and driven by operators with valid Professional Driving Permits.

“The safety of our learners is a shared responsibility,” Mathye said, adding that enforcement operations will continue across the province to ensure children are transported safely to and from school.