(1) A State Government, having regard to the following factors:
(a) The advantages offered to the public, trade, and industry by the development of motor transport;
(b) The desirability of coordinating road and rail transport;
(c) The desirability of preventing the deterioration of the road system; and
(d) The desirability of preventing uneconomic competition among holders of permits;
may, from time to time, by notification in the Official Gazette, issue directions to the State Transport Authority and the Regional Transport Authority regarding:
(i) Fixing fares and freights, including maximum and minimum limits, for stage carriages, contract carriages, and goods carriages;
(ii) Prohibiting or restricting, subject to specified conditions, the conveyance of long-distance goods traffic, either generally or for specified classes of goods by goods carriages;
(iii) Any other matter necessary or expedient for giving effect to agreements entered into with the Central Government, other State Governments, or foreign governments, particularly regarding the regulation of motor transport and its coordination with other means of transport and the conveyance of long-distance goods traffic.
Provided that no notification under clause (iii) or clause (iv) shall be issued unless a draft of the proposed directions is published in the Official Gazette. This draft must specify a date, not less than one month from the date of publication, by which objections or suggestions will be considered. Any objections or suggestions received will be considered in consultation with the State Transport Authority after allowing the representatives of the affected interests an opportunity to be heard.
(2) Any direction issued under sub-section (1) regarding the fixing of fares and freights for stage carriages, contract carriages, and goods carriages may include provisions that such fares or freights are inclusive of the tax payable by passengers or consignors of goods, as applicable, to the operators of the stage carriages, contract carriages, or goods carriages under any law in force related to taxes on passengers and goods.
Simplified Explanation
Section 67 of the Motor Vehicles Act provides the State Government with the authority to regulate road transport within its jurisdiction to ensure safety, efficiency, and coordination. This power is particularly focused on controlling the operation of motor vehicles and managing road traffic conditions. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what this section entails:
Purpose and Scope
- Regulate Road Transport: The State Government can issue directives on how motor vehicles are operated within the state. This includes determining routes, managing frequencies, and ensuring that transport services meet the local demands and safety standards.
- Coordination of Transport Services: It aims to ensure that there’s minimal overlap and redundancy in transport services, promoting efficient use of road space and resources.
- Safety and Efficiency: The regulations are also meant to enhance safety for all road users and ensure that transport services are efficient and timely.
Powers Granted
- Granting Permits: The State Government can decide who can operate transport services, under what conditions, and on which routes.
- Setting Conditions for Transport Operations: This includes the ability to set fares, prescribe conditions for vehicles and drivers, and establish standards for the quality of service.
- Direct Control over Transport Vehicles: The state can control the age, condition, and types of vehicles that may be used in public transport to maintain safety standards and environmental compliance.
Implementation Mechanisms
- Formation of Authorities: The State Government may establish authorities or committees to oversee and implement transport regulations effectively.
- Consultation: Before making any regulations, the state usually consults with local bodies and stakeholders, such as transport operators and user groups, to ensure that the rules are practical and beneficial.
Impact on Public and Operators
- For Operators: Transport operators need to comply with the conditions set out by the state to obtain and maintain permits. Non-compliance can result in penalties or loss of the permit to operate.
- For the Public: These regulations aim to provide reliable, safe, and efficient transport services to the public, making road transport more organized and less chaotic.
Examples of State Control
- Restricting the number of autos in a congested area to reduce traffic.
- Regulating app-based cab services to ensure fair pricing and safety.
- Specifying bus routes that connect remote areas to main cities to ensure that all regions have access to transport facilities.
This section is crucial as it allows the State Government to tailor transport regulations that suit local needs and conditions, promoting an organized and efficient transportation system within the state.
