Kerala's buses must display owner contact details

Kerala's Transport Commissioner, Nagaraju Chakilam, is visiting Motor Vehicle Department offices across the state. He aims to solve public complaints and improve services while reducing corruption. During a recent visit to Malappuram, he explained new reforms. To eliminate long lines for vehicle fitness tests, Kerala will set up two automated testing stations in each district. There will also be new accredited driving test centers, with applications opening within a month. Each joint RTO office will supervise one center. The government plans to create scrapping units in three locations for vehicles older than 15 years. Those buying new vehicles and scrapping their old ones will get a 15% discount on road tax. Transport vehicle buyers will receive a 20% discount. To enhance driver training, new extension centers of the Institute of Driver Training and Research will open, making advanced training more accessible. Kerala also aims to install 35 charging stations for electric vehicles, with 14 currently pending approval. By the end of March, private buses will be required to display stickers with the phone numbers of the bus owner and Motor Vehicle Department officials. Bus drivers and cleaners will need police clearance certificates. CCTV cameras must also be installed in private buses by March 31, with penalties for those who do not comply. To improve transport options, the government will issue 503 new permits for mini-buses in areas lacking public transport.