Here’s How to Apply for the 503 New Private Bus Permits in Kerala
The Kerala State Transport Authority is granting 503 new private bus permits in Kerala, covering 28,146 km of routes, with specific requirements for new buses and safety features. Applications will open soon, with an auction for competitive routes and a permit fee of ₹5,940.
The Kerala State Transport Authority (STA) is set to issue 503 new private bus permits. This decision follows recommendations from a Transport Department meeting. The new routes will cover 28,146 km, including 617 km, which currently has no bus service.
To ensure fair competition, two permits will be given per route. If multiple people apply for the same route, an auction will decide the winner.
Only new buses are allowed for these permits. Applicants must also provide a police certificate to show that neither the bus owner nor the staff has a criminal record.
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Requirements for the New Private Bus Permits in Kerala
Only new buses will be eligible for these permits, and they must comply with specific safety and technological standards set by the Transport Department.
These include having GPS, surveillance cameras, digital route boards, geo-fencing, digital ticket machines, and drinking water for passengers. The permit fee is ₹5,940.
Key Requirements
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cameras | Three cameras—inside, front, and rear—for enhanced surveillance |
| Driver Fatigue Detection | Special camera with sensors to detect driver fatigue |
| Digital Display Boards | Located at the front, rear, and left side, displaying live location details |
| GPS with Geofencing | Real-time tracking, geofencing, and recording facilities |
| Ticketing System | Supports QR code scanning, swiping, UPI transactions, and cash payments |
| Drinking Water Facilities | Available for all passengers |
| Compliance with AIS 052 | Mandatory adherence to the Automotive Industry Standards (AIS) 052 body code |
Security and Financial Requirements:
- Police Clearance Certificate:
The registered owner, driver, and conductor must obtain a police clearance certificate to ensure they have no criminal records. - Income Tax Returns:
To confirm financial stability, the bus owner and permit holder must submit income tax returns for the past three years.
Application Process for New Private Bus Permits in Kerala
Once the routes are notified, the Motor Vehicles Department will invite applications. This plan also involves revising routes where bus services have been suspended. For the first time, passenger needs are being prioritized in route planning.
Key Details for Applicants:
| Detail | Information |
| Permit Fee | ₹5,940 |
| Number of Permits | 503 |
| Total Route Coverage | 28,146 km (including 617 km with no current service) |
| Route Competition | Two permits per route; auctions for overlapping applications |
Initially, 1,000 new routes were proposed, but concerns about the impact on KSRTC services led to some changes. Private buses are now allowed to operate up to 17 km on KSRTC routes, an increase from the previous 5 km limit.
The Chief Minister’s Office intervened to ensure a balanced approach to both public and private transport.
