Nagpur: Following the tragic death of a Class 10 student from Saraswati Vidyalaya during a school trip, the Nagpur District Education Department has issued comprehensive guidelines to ensure the safety of students on educational excursions. The directives emphasize stringent precautions and accountability for schools organizing such trips.

The notification mandates that schools conduct only one educational trip per academic year. Obtaining prior consent from parents and students is compulsory, along with submitting a list of participants and emergency contact details. The responsibility for students’ safety rests with the principal and accompanying teachers, who must ensure a teacher-student ratio of 1:10. Female teachers must accompany trips involving girl students.

To further enhance safety, trips are to be conducted only via Maharashtra State Transport Corporation buses, and night travel is strictly prohibited. Visits to high-risk locations, such as beaches, rivers, mountains, or other hazardous areas, are banned. First-aid kits, local doctor contact details, and nearby government hospital information must be readily available during trips.

The guidelines also specify that schools must discuss trip plans with parents and avoid imposing any additional financial burden on students. Principals are required to submit a ₹100 bond ensuring compliance with all regulations before seeking trip approval. Non-adherence or negligence leading to accidents will hold school authorities liable for legal action.

The directive concludes with a stern warning: unauthorized or inadequately planned trips that endanger students’ lives will result in severe penalties for the school administration. These measures aim to prevent further incidents and prioritize student safety during educational excursions.

Educational institutions across Nagpur have been urged to implement these guidelines immediately and ensure strict compliance.