PATHANAMTHITTA: Robin Private buses, running the All-India Permit service between Pathanamthitta and Coimbatore, faced fines in five locations across Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Each employer was fined Rs 7,500 accumulating to a total penalty of Rs 1,07,910. MVD imposed fines amounting to Rs 70,410 in Tamil Nadu alone.

MVD officials flagged the bus, claiming it violated regulations as a contract carriage vehicle. According to All India Tourist Permit rules, such buses cannot display destination boards or pick up passengers en route. Despite Bus owner Girish arguing compliance with new Central Government All India Tourist Service rules, the MVD enforced penalties.

The bus, scheduled to arrive in Coimbatore at 12 noon, faced delays and reached at 6 pm due to frequent stops and fines imposed by officials. The bus, commencing its journey at 5 am from Pathanamthitta was halted merely 200 meters after departure. Stops occurred in Pala, Angamaly, Pudukkad, Alathur and finally at Chavadi in Tamil Nadu.

Notably, this isn't the first instance of action against this bus service. Although earlier rectified and protected by a High Court order, officials continued to impose fines and detain the bus, despite the court's instruction against such actions.

MVD officials stated that only stage carriage buses authorized by KSRTC have permission to operate on the nationalized Pathanamthitta-Coimbatore route, restricting other services displaying destination boards.

In response, Girish, the bus owner, vowed to persist with the service despite disruptions or fines.

Meanwhile, KSRTC announced an alternative AC low-floor bus service on the same route, departing at 4.30 am, challenging Robin Bus's schedule starting at 5 o'clock. This marks the first time KSRTC is operating on the Pathanamthitta-Coimbatore route.