Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Transport Minister Antony Raju said that fitness certificates would not be issued to heavy vehicles without seat belts and closed circuit cameras from November 1 onwards. 

"Seat belts and cameras have been mandated to ensure the safety of both passengers and bus crew. CCTV cameras play a vital role in accident investigations, and the bus operators welcome the government's decision. Moreover, the Kerala government offers a subsidy of Rs 4000 for the installation of these cameras," he said.

Meanwhile, Raju termed the state-wide strike observed by private bus as unnecessary, noting that the government has already constituted a commission to look into the revision of the minimum fare/concession for students.  

"Private bus ticket prices increased multiple times after the LDF came to power. The government approved hikes in the past four years, including during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, they are currently requesting a revision of students' ticket fares, disregarding these facts," said Raju.