Thiruvananthapuram: While the Kerala government continues to grapple with the misuse of the All India Tourist Permit (AITP), which poses a serious threat to KSRTC’s long-distance services, Tamil Nadu has adopted a stricter enforcement model.

A private AITP bus operating between Gudalur and Sultan Bathery has been impounded by the Tamil Nadu Motor Vehicles Department for the past two weeks after officials found clear evidence of route permit violations. Tamil Nadu RTC officials purchased tickets and boarded the bus, later providing testimony when the Motor Vehicles Department inspected the vehicle. This helped establish that the bus was running as an unauthorised parallel service.

In contrast, such coordination is absent between the KSRTC and Kerala Motor Vehicles Department (MVD). During inspections in Kerala, passengers often hesitate to provide testimony, fearing threats from private bus staff. Without any statements from passengers, MVD officials are forced to withdraw, citing lack of evidence.

Private buses, which were earlier confined to inter-state routes, have now begun encroaching on KSRTC’s interstate routes as well, leading to a notable decline in the corporation’s revenue. However, KSRTC staff unions have shown reluctance to push for an intervention similar to Tamil Nadu model. Allegations are also mounting that the state government maintains a favourable stance towards private operators.

The All India Tourist Permit is meant strictly for commuting tourists across multiple states. Using it as a substitute for stage carriage services, by issuing tickets, displaying routes, and operating like regular services, constitutes a violation of the law. The High Court has already ruled that such practices are illegal.