All interstate private bus services from Kerala have been suspended from today, following a decision by the Kerala State Committee of the Luxury Bus Owners’ Association. The move comes in response to what the association describes as unjust taxes, heavy fines, and vehicle seizures imposed by the states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
According to the announcement, all tourist buses operating from Kerala will cease service from 6 p.m. today. Association president A.J. Rijas and general secretary Manish Shashidharan stated that the decision was taken due to the continued harassment of vehicles operating under the All India Tourist Permit by authorities in neighboring states. They emphasized that this is not a protest, but a safety measure to protect vehicle owners, employees, and passengers.
The association pointed out that it has become routine for Tamil Nadu and Karnataka authorities to collect arbitrary taxes, impose steep fines, and seize vehicles from Kerala operators.
With the suspension of services, thousands of passengers traveling to destinations such as Bengaluru and Chennai are expected to face severe travel disruptions and inconvenience starting today.
