Shillong: Meghalaya Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui on Tuesday said he was not aware of the reasons behind the Meghalaya Transport Corporation’s (MTC) decision to discontinue its school bus services from the next academic year beginning April 1, 2026.
The minister’s remarks come days after MTC officially announced that it would stop operating school buses across the state, a move that has raised concerns among parents, students and school authorities who rely on the service for safe and affordable transportation.
Speaking to reporters, Rymbui said he has not yet sought clarification from MTC regarding the decision. “I have not asked them what prompted this move, so at this point I cannot comment on the reason behind stopping the school bus service,” he said.
The Education Minister, however, stressed that the state government is conscious of traffic congestion and student safety, particularly during school hours. He pointed out that the government had already initiated an alternative mechanism through the Sustainable Transport and Efficient Mobility Society (STEMS), which was launched two years ago under the leadership of Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma.
Rymbui said the STEMS buses were introduced to ease congestion, reduce pollution and provide structured transport support to schoolchildren. “If the STEMS buses are found to be genuinely effective and beneficial, the government will consider increasing their number in the coming months and years,” he added.
The MTC decision has sparked debate, with stakeholders questioning whether adequate alternatives will be in place before the withdrawal of school buses. Many parents have expressed concern over rising private transport costs and road safety, especially for students travelling long distances.
Meanwhile, education officials indicated that discussions may be held with the transport department to ensure that students are not adversely affected by the discontinuation of MTC school bus services.
