Private Buses Canceled Without Notice Will Lose Licence In Kerala

The Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) in Kerala's Kozhikode district have started cracking down on private bus operators who have been cancelling buses on certain routes without prior notice.

Following complaints received by indignant passengers, who are getting stranded, waiting for buses, some times for up to hours, authorities have decided to take stringent action against erring bus operators.

Bus cancellations have reportedly reached unprecedented levels and cause inconvenience particularly because as they are pulled off without without notice. The problem is said to be severe along Perumanna, Poovattuparamba, Medical College, Mankavu, Mavoor, Koyilandy, Vadakara and other routes, where buses are unavailable during afternoon and night times.

The reason given by operators for cancellation is shortage of staff during summer vacations and/or economic inviability as passengers are fewer during these times.

The authorities have reportedly started cracking down on such operators by slapping a fine of INR 5,000 the first time and on repeated offence, by revoking their permit.

"When we seek explanations from the bus owners they claim staff shortage the reason for cancelling trips. Besides, engine fault and other reasons are also pointed out by them," the ET report reads an RTO official as having said. "However, we have decided to inspect the bus and check fitness condition if they come up with such claims."

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