Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala’s Transport Department has launched a strict enforcement drive against out-of-state buses operating in the state without paying the requisite road tax, prompting several bus operators to suspend services in protest. The crackdown, aimed at ensuring compliance with state tax and permit regulations, has affected hundreds of buses, particularly those from Tamil Nadu, and disrupted travel plans for thousands of passengers.
According to the Kerala Motor Vehicles Department (MVD), buses operating under the All-India Tourist Vehicle Permit are still required to pay Kerala Road tax if they pick up or drop passengers within the state. Inspectors recently intercepted buses found to have evaded tax payments, with dues ranging from ₹1 lakh to ₹2 lakh depending on seating capacity. Some buses were also found violating permit conditions, using outdated number plates, and operating in ways that resembled regular stage-carriage services rather than limited tourist operations.
In response to the enforcement, the Tamil Nadu Omni Bus Owners Association decided to suspend all services into Kerala from Saturday night. Approximately 190 buses have been taken off the road, leaving passengers scrambling for alternatives. Pilgrims, weekend travelers, and tourists heading to Kerala’s popular destinations have been particularly affected, with ticket cancellations and travel delays reported across multiple routes.
Kerala authorities maintain that the crackdown is legally justified. While the All-India Tourist Vehicle Permit allows inter-state operations, it does not exempt vehicles from paying state-specific taxes when regularly operating within that state. Officials stressed that the enforcement ensures fairness for local bus operators and reinforces adherence to safety and permit regulations.
The department’s action also highlights the state’s focus on curbing irregularities such as over speeding, misuse of tourist permits, and safety violations, aiming to create a level playing field in the transport sector. Transport Commissioner officials emphasized that buses will only be allowed to resume services once all tax dues are cleared and permit issues are regularized.
The suspension of services has sparked concern about inter-state transport operations across India. Operators in several states have long argued that buses registered in low-tax jurisdictions gain unfair competitive advantages when operating in other states. Experts note that this enforcement drive could trigger legal challenges over the interpretation of tourist permit rules, distinctions between stage-carriage and contract-carriage services, and states’ authority to levy taxes on all-India permit vehicles.
The Kerala crackdown serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between regulatory enforcement and maintaining uninterrupted public transport services. While the state moves to ensure tax compliance and road safety, passengers and operators alike face short-term disruptions that could extend if the dispute is not resolved swiftly.