In a significant development that may disrupt interstate travel in South India, the Luxury Bus Owners Association (LBOA), Kerala State Committee announced that all tourist bus services from Kerala to Tamil Nadu and Karnataka will be suspended from 6 PM on Monday.
The decision comes amid a growing standoff between private bus operators and state transport authorities over revised taxation, road permit conditions, and alleged harassment at border check posts.
The LBOA, representing hundreds of private luxury and tourist bus operators, stated that this decision was made after repeated appeals to resolve operational issues were ignored by authorities in neighboring states.
What Led To The Suspension
In its official statement, the association accused authorities in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka of imposing unfair road taxes and penalties on Kerala-registered buses. Operators claim that even vehicles with valid national permits are being subjected to repeated checks and fines, making interstate operations financially unviable.
“Despite multiple meetings and requests to the transport departments of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, there has been no positive response. We are left with no option but to halt services temporarily,” the association said.
The suspension affects hundreds of daily bus services, particularly those connecting Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, and Thrissur with major cities like Bengaluru, Chennai, and Coimbatore.
Impact On Travelers
The move has caused concern among passengers, especially tourists and regular commuters who rely on private operators for long-distance travel. With the suspension taking effect during the busy post-Diwali travel period, thousands of bookings have been cancelled or rescheduled.
Travel agents and online platforms have begun notifying passengers of disruptions, with several passengers rushing to secure seats on state-run services like KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) and TNSTC (Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation).
“We were supposed to travel to Bengaluru tonight, but our operator informed us that all trips have been cancelled. We are now trying for train tickets,” said a passenger from Kochi.
Government Response
Officials from Kerala’s Transport Department have acknowledged receiving the association’s notice and said discussions are underway to mediate with the transport authorities of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
“We understand the operators’ concerns and will reach out to our counterparts to find a resolution. Interstate coordination is crucial for passenger convenience,” a senior Kerala transport official said.
Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu and Karnataka transport departments have not yet issued an official statement, but sources suggest that talks may be initiated soon to prevent a prolonged disruption of services.
About The Luxury Bus Owners Association (LBOA)
The Luxury Bus Owners Association represents over 800 private operators in Kerala, managing both domestic and interstate tourist services. The association plays a crucial role in Kerala’s tourism economy, facilitating travel for visitors across South India’s major destinations.
Officials warned that if the issue remains unresolved, the association may extend the suspension indefinitely, potentially impacting the state’s tourism and hospitality sector.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: When will the suspension of services begin?
From 6 PM on Monday, all Kerala-based tourist bus services to Tamil Nadu and Karnataka will be suspended.
Q2: Why are services being suspended?
Due to disputes over road tax, permits, and repeated penalties imposed on Kerala-registered vehicles by neighboring states.
Q3: Which routes will be affected?
Routes between Kerala and cities like Bengaluru, Chennai, Coimbatore, and Mysuru will be impacted.
Q4: Will KSRTC and government buses be affected?
No, the suspension only applies to private tourist and luxury buses, not state-run services.
Q5: How long will the strike last?
Indefinite — until authorities reach a resolution with the operators.
Published on : 10th November
Published by : SMITA
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Source Credit : Reported by Press Trust of India (PTI) — NDTV India News Desk