KOCHI: The Kerala High Court has sought clarification from the state government on whether it has the authority to relax vehicle traffic safety standards. The question arose in connection with a government order issued on December 28 that allowed certain exemptions to safety norms for the double-decker buses operated by KSRTC in Munnar. The matter was addressed in a suo motu case before a division bench comprising Justice Anil K Narendran and Justice S Murali Krishna.

After reviewing visuals, the court observed that the KSRTC Royal View buses operating as part of tourism services were equipped with excessive lighting beyond permissible limits. The buses have six headlights and multi-coloured lights have been installed inside the passenger cabin in violation of motor vehicle laws. Additional lights have been fixed on the side window glass and wheel arches. The court noted that these modifications could pose risks not only to other vehicles but also to the buses themselves.

During the hearing, the KSRTC standing counsel pointed out that the government had issued an order granting exemptions to the norms. The court then questioned how the state could provide such relaxations in matters governed by central legislation. Following this, it directed the government to provide further clarification on the order. The court will consider the matter again on Friday.