Kerala to drop white-only rule? Tourist buses may soon get colour freedom

The Kerala State Transport Authority (STA) has decided to recommend a change in the existing rule that restricts tourist buses to a white colour scheme, allowing them instead to use a variety of colours. At the same time, the authority has prohibited the use of large film star cutouts on tourist buses.

Colour restriction may be relaxed

In 2022, the Kerala government introduced a rule mandating that tourist buses operate only in white colour. The decision was aimed at regulating bus modifications and maintaining uniformity in tourist transport vehicles.

However, tourist bus owners later raised concerns that the restriction was negatively affecting their business. They argued that buses from other states with bright colours and attractive designs were drawing more bookings from tourists travelling in Kerala.

After considering these complaints, the State Transport Authority meeting in Thiruvananthapuram decided to recommend to the government that tourist buses should be allowed to operate in any colour.

Film star cutouts banned on buses

While relaxing colour restrictions, the authority has decided that large cutouts of film stars and similar oversized decorative elements will not be permitted on tourist buses.

The move is intended to prevent excessive modifications that could affect safety or violate transport regulations.

Decision on ‘Rent a Bike’ permits

During the same meeting, the authority also discussed applications for operating ‘Rent a Bike’ services. Officials said many applications had been received for the service.

The authority decided to issue permits for these services but with additional conditions to regulate their operation.

If approved by the state government, the proposed relaxation on bus colours could significantly change the appearance of tourist buses operating in Kerala while maintaining restrictions on certain types of modifications.