Kollam: While most states have implemented the central government’s strict regulation banning operation of diesel vehicles older than 15 years, over 1000 KSRTC buses continue to ply on the roads in Kerala due to a special order from the state transport secretary. However, several buses that haven’t reached the 15-year limit are lying unused in various depots.

A total of 178 KSRTC buses are parked in depots without even undergoing the mandatory fitness test. Reports suggest that many of these buses, which haven't been presented for the annual fitness test, are actually less than 15 years old.

At the same time, it is reported that 1,261 buses that have crossed the age limit and can no longer even be registered with the Motor Vehicles Department are still running services on the roads. These older buses also face several issues. The operation of these buses is being continued only due to a special directive issued by the transport secretary.

Even though the registration of these buses is maintained manually at the Motor Vehicles Department, they have not been included in the digital system. As they are not registered on the Parivahan portal, these buses cannot be insured. Due to this situation, buses that have not reached the end of their service period are left idle.

According to present data, KSRTC has 4,500 buses and operates 3,400 services daily. Around 18.5 lakh passengers travel with KSRTC each day.

Thiruvananthapuram ranks first in the number of buses not in service due to breakdowns, with 15 buses left idle. Kozhikode has 10 such buses, and Parassala has 8. The lack of mechanical staff and unavailability of spare parts are cited as the main reasons for not being able to repair these buses.

On December 17, the authorities issued an order stating that buses which have not exceeded their validity period and are in a condition suitable to be put on the roads should be repaired and sent for CF (Certificate of Fitness) testing. However, 178 buses are still lying idle in the depot. The Technical Department’s Executive Director has now directed that the repair work on these buses should be completed and the fitness tests conducted by Friday.