Seven years on, GPS system in cabs remains ineffective and expensive in Kerala

Pathanamthitta, Kerala: The Vehicle Location Tracking System (VLTS), introduced to enhance passenger safety in taxis across Kerala, has turned into a mere requirement for obtaining fitness certificates. 

The system, which includes GPS-based tracking and emergency buttons meant to alert the police, fire department, and motor vehicles department, has been in place for seven years but remains largely ineffective.

The GPS system requires an annual recharge, failing which the vehicle will not be granted fitness certification. Taxi owners must pay ₹3,500 each year to maintain the service. When the initiative was launched in 2018, the Motor Vehicles Department had approved devices from 12 companies. However, several of these companies have since disappeared, leaving only five operational today.

As a result, many taxi operators are unable to recharge their existing systems and are forced to purchase new devices, which cost upwards of ₹7,000.

Emergency buttons serve no purpose

The system includes emergency buttons for both drivers and passengers, intended to send distress alerts to authorities in case of danger. However, in the absence of a centralized control room, pressing these buttons has no effect.

Despite its ineffectiveness, the installation of VLTS remains mandatory under the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, making it a non-negotiable requirement for fitness certification.