Nearly 50% of the school buses and vans in Pune are operating without valid fitness certificates, raising significant safety concerns for students. The Pune Regional Transport Office (RTO) reported that out of 6,051 registered vehicles, 2,927 lack current fitness certificates, with buses comprising 64% of these. Deputy RTO Swapnil Bhosle emphasized the importance of permit renewal every two years for vehicles under eight years old, and annually thereafter, with a maximum age limit of 18 years for school transport vehicles. In response to the alarming statistics, the RTO has extended its hours to weekends for inspections and renewals. However, parent advocates are questioning the RTO's enforcement actions, given the potential risks posed by unfit vehicles still operating on the roads. The situation underscores the responsibility of school authorities to ensure compliance with safety regulations.