The State Transport Authority (STA) meeting scheduled for Wednesday at the Thiruvananthapuram Transport Commissionerate will focus on relaxing the existing colour code system for tourist buses.

The meeting will also discuss plans to adopt a yellow colour scheme for the front and rear parts of driving school vehicles.

Initially introduced during Antony Raju's tenure as transport minister, the tourist buses were directed to use white as a uniform colour code to improve road safety. However, with a change in the minister helming the transport authority, there is now a proposal to allow tourist buses to use any of the five prescribed colours.

The decision to implement a uniform colour code for tourist buses stemmed from a tragic incident in Vadakkanchery that resulted in nine fatalities. The motor vehicle department advocated for white colour as it enhances visibility and safety, a decision supported by the STA despite tourist bus operators moving to Kerala High Court against the order.

Under the incumbent Transport Minister Ganesh Kumar, there appears to be a policy shift towards reconsidering the colour code requirements. However, restrictions would remain over the excessive artwork on buses if changes to the colour code are permitted, emphasising the need to balance aesthetics with safety considerations.

In essence, Wednesday's STA meeting reflects evolving perspectives on vehicle colour coding, highlighting its significance for road safety and the interests of stakeholders in the transport sector.