Cop drives school bus after drunk driver caught during police check in Pathanamthitta

Pathanamthitta: A routine police vehicle inspection at Saint Peter’s junction turned into a remarkable Friday morning for a group of school children, thanks to the timely intervention of a vigilant police officer.

Around 8:30 AM, traffic police stopped a school bus for a routine inspection. After being tested with a breathalyzer, the driver, identified as Libin Chandran (36), a native of Mezhuveli, was found to be under the influence of alcohol. Shockingly, the bus was scheduled for another trip to pick up more students after dropping the current batch.

The police team led by SI Aji Samuel immediately took Libin into custody. Inside the bus were 12 children and a support staff member, all en route to school.

Understanding the emergency of the situation, SCPO Jayaprakash, a former soldier and now part of the Pathanamthitta Traffic Enforcement Unit for the past year, took charge. Without delay, he climbed into the driver’s seat and drove the children safely to their school in Mezhukavallur.

However, things didn't end there. On reaching the school, officials realised there was no substitute driver for the return trip. After acquiring the permission from his senior officials. Jayaprakash once again stepped up and drove the next round as well, ensuring no disruption to the students’ commute.

Traffic SI and officers later met the school principal and informed them of the incident and the action taken. Jayaprakash,CPO Sharath Lal accompanied him.

The police confirmed that Libin Chandran’s driving license will be cancelled, and a report has been forwarded to the Motor Vehicles Department. He was later released on bail.

School officials have also confirmed that, moving forward, drivers will only be allowed to take charge of school vehicles after thorough inspection.