Robin Bus Service started; MVD fined Rs 7500 for violation of permit

Pathanamthitta: Motor vehicle department imposed fine after starting Robin bus service. A fine was imposed after 200 meters from the start of the journey. A fine of Rs 7500 was imposed for violation of permit. MVD is of the stand that buses with tourist permits will not be allowed to run as stage carriages. The bus journey started at 5 am from Pathanamthitta private bus stand.

Meanwhile, KSRTC filed a petition in the High Court to close Robin Bus. A petition was filed in the High Court against certain sections of the All India Tourist Permit Rules. KSRTC pointed out that certain sections of the rules are against the law. Vehicles with All India Tourist Permit should be restricted through the nationalized route. There is a demand to control the vehicles which are driven as stage carriage by taking All India Tourist Permit. At present only KSRTC is allowed to run on the nationalized route. The petition also states that the plying of other vehicles is causing difficulties for KSRTC.

Robin Bus started service from Pathanamthitta to Coimbatore on August 30. The MVD canceled the fitness of the bus in September. After 45 days, the bus passed the fitness test and resumed service on October 16. The case reached the court when the bus was caught by MVD again. The bus was released following a court order to return it to the owner.