Kerala Motor Vehicle Department Revises Seat Belt and Surveillance Camera Mandate for Heavy Vehicles

The Kerala Motor Vehicle Department has modified its earlier directive, making seat belts and surveillance cameras mandatory for heavy vehicles, including buses. Initially, a stringent order was issued, requiring drivers and passengers in the front seats of all heavy vehicles, including those operated by the state-run Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private buses, to wear seat belts from November 1.

However, following protests and concerns raised by private bus operators, the department has revised its stance. According to the new order, the mandatory installation of seat belts and surveillance cameras will only apply to vehicles undergoing fitness examinations after November 1. In essence, vehicles will not receive fitness certificates unless they are equipped with seat belts and cameras.

The decision to relax the mandate came after the KSRTC, grappling with a severe financial crisis, expressed its inability to immediately procure funds to comply with the new regulations. As a result, the strict enforcement of the provisions across all heavy vehicles has been deferred. It is expected that the implementation will be gradual, with a focus on vehicles undergoing fitness tests first.

Additionally, the Motor Vehicle Department has extended the maximum operating period for diesel autorickshaws to shift to eco-friendly fuels to 22 years, providing some relief for vehicle owners during this transition period.