Shillong, Jan 14: The Hynniewtrep Youths’ Council (HYC) strongly condemns the decision of the Meghalaya Transport Corporation (MTC) to discontinue bus services for students with effect from lst April, 2026, a move that will directly and severely affect thousands of school-going children and their families across the State.
The abrupt decision to withdraw student bus services reflects a complete disregard for students’ safety, accessibility to education, and public welfare. For many families, especially those from economically weaker sections, MTC buses are not a convenience but a lifeline, ensuring safe and affordable transport to and from schools.
HYC questions how a public sector undertaking entrusted with serving the people can take such a regressive and insensitive decision without placing in the public domain any credible alternative arrangements. Forcing students to rely on overcrowded private vehicles, unsafe informal transport, or long walking distances exposes them to serious safety risks and financial hardship.
The Council firmly asserts that education cannot be disrupted due to administrative or financial mismanagement. If operational challenges exist, the responsibility lies with the Government and MTC to resolve them-not to pass the burden onto children and parents.
The HYC therefore demands Immediate reconsideration and withdrawal of the decision to discontinue student bus services from 1lst April, 2026; Continuation of MTC bus services for students until a safe, affordable, and publicly acceptable alternative is put in place and Transparent consultation with stalkeholders, including parents, schools, and civil society organisations.
Let it be made clear that the HYC will not remain silent while decisions are taken that undermine the future and safety of students. If the authorities fail to reverse this decision, the Council will be compelled to initiate strong democratic and public action in defence of students’ rights and public interest. Public transport exists to serve the people-not to abandon them. Said Mr. Ray Kupar Synrem President HYC.
