Kanhangad: The Transport Department has made it mandatory for new buses applying for permits to comply with the Automotive Industry Standards (AIS) 052 body code. This requirement applies to permits granted for new bus routes allocated as part of the public meetings conducted across constituencies in the state.

The buses must be equipped with three cameras—one inside, one in the front, and one at the rear. There should be a digital display board at the front, rear, and left side of the bus, providing location details.

Apart from this, a special camera with sensors to detect driver fatigue is also mandatory. The buses must also have a Global Positioning System (GPS) with geofencing and recording facilities. Furthermore, drinking water facilities must be available for passengers.

In addition to traditional cash payments, the ticketing system should allow fare collection through QR code scanning, swiping, and UPI transactions.

The registered owner of the bus, the driver, and the conductor must obtain a police clearance certificate. To ensure financial stability, the owner and permit holder must submit income tax returns for the past three years.

Initially, permits will be granted for two buses per new route. At the state level, permits will be issued for a total of 503 routes under this scheme.