Route Optimization for School Buses Using Real-Time GPS and Geospatial Data

School bus route optimization plays a crucial role in minimizing transportation costs, improving operational efficiency, and ensuring student safety. Traditional routing methods often fail to account for real-world constraints such as traffic conditions, time windows, and capacity limitations. This paper presents a comprehensive approach to optimizing school bus routes, focusing on improving safety, fuel efficiency, and overall travel time. The proposed system integrates real-time GPS tracking with geospatial mapping technologies, allowing for continuous monitoring of bus locations and traffic conditions. The system incorporates real-time traffic data, weather forecasts, and dynamic route adjustments to avoid congestion, accidents, and adverse weather conditions. Additionally, the integration of safety data ensures that bus routes and stops are adjusted to avoid high-risk areas, further enhancing student safety. The system also optimizes bus stop locations by eliminating unnecessary stops, reducing both fuel consumption and travel time. This approach not only ensures timely and safe school transportation but also provides a scalable solution for urban areas. The methodology, results, and performance of the system are discussed, demonstrating the efficacy of the solution in optimizing school bus operations.