KERALA BUS TRANSPORT ASSOCIATION Vs. REGIONAL TRANSPORT AUTHORITY

JUDGEMENT

(1.) THE matter involved in these writ petitions relate to the fixation of a particular route for buses in the Aluva- Kalamassery sector. It appears that on 10.8.2004, the Regional Transport Authority had taken a decision. THEreafter, on 19.11.2010, the RTA took yet another decision, which is now pending in revision as MVARP.No.3/11 before the State Transport Appellate Tribunal. THE Bus Operators on the one hand; the local residents and the Vyapari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samithi on the other, appear to have controversies as to the identity of the route through which the buses should ply.

(2.) WE do not deem it appropriate now to go into that issue though certain arguments were advanced as to the sustainability of the decision of the RTA. With the passage of time, the Secretary, RTA has issued a communication to the Bus Operators indicating that the District Collector has decided to re-consider the earlier decision rendered on 19.11.2010. WE are not on the legality of that also. These are matters which should gain the attention of the STAT. Having regard to the different stake holders with the Bus Operators and the public at large, we deem it appropriate that the STAT would give priority to the disposal of MVARP.3/11. At any rate, any request in that revision for interim relief either way would be considered and orders issued at the earliest. Since the parties in MVARP.3/11 are before us, we direct them to appear before the STAT on 14.2.2011. In the mean while, having regard to the apprehension expressed by the Bus Operators and in view of the RTA's stand that the area in question is prone to accidents, we direct that the police will ensure that law and order is appropriately maintained and will honour such orders as may be issued by the STAT. The writ petitions are ordered accordingly.