(1) An application for a permit in respect of a stage carriage (in this Chapter referred to as a stage carriage permit) or as a reserve stage carriage shall, as far as may be, contain the following particulars, namely:—
(a) The route or routes or the area or areas to which the application relates;
(b) The type and seating capacity of each such vehicle;
(c) The minimum and maximum number of daily trips proposed to be provided and the time-table of the normal trips.
Explanation.—For the purposes of this section, section 72, section 80, and section 102, “trip” means a single journey from one point to another, and every return journey shall be deemed to be a separate trip;
(d) The number of vehicles intended to be kept in reserve to maintain the service and to provide for special occasions;
(e) The arrangements intended to be made for the housing, maintenance, and repair of the vehicles, for the comfort and convenience of passengers, and for the storage and safe custody of luggage;
(f) Such other matters as may be prescribed.
(2) An application referred to in sub-section (1) shall be accompanied by such documents as may be prescribed.
Simplified Explanation
Section 70 of the Motor Vehicles Act specifically addresses the application process for a stage carriage permit. A stage carriage permit is required for vehicles that carry passengers for hire or reward where passengers are picked up and dropped off at predetermined stopping points along a fixed route.
Key Aspects of the Application Process
- Application Submission: Applicants seeking to operate a stage carriage must submit a detailed application to the appropriate Regional Transport Authority (RTA). The application should outline the intended route, the number of services proposed, the type of vehicle used, and other relevant operational details.
- Necessary Documentation: Alongside the application, the applicant must provide documentation that supports their ability to operate a stage carriage. This might include details of vehicles, proof of insurance, and information on the applicant’s background and financial capability.
Considerations for Granting Permits
- Route Necessity: The RTA assesses the public necessity of opening a new route or augmenting the service on an existing route. This is based on factors like current transport availability, public demand, and geographic coverage.
- Vehicle Suitability and Safety: The suitability of the proposed vehicles in terms of safety, environmental compliance, and capacity to handle the expected passenger load is scrutinized.
- Applicant’s Qualifications: The qualifications of the applicant, including their experience in transport management and financial stability, are considered to ensure reliable and efficient service.
Public Participation and Transparency
- Publication of Applications: Details of the application are often published, inviting public comments or objections. This process is intended to ensure transparency and allow stakeholders, such as local residents and other transport operators, to express support or concerns.
- Public Hearing: In some cases, a public hearing may be held to discuss the application, especially if significant public interest or opposition exists.
Granting the Permit
- Decision by RTA: After considering all factors and public inputs, the RTA decides whether to grant the permit, deny it, or ask for modifications in the proposal.
- Terms and Conditions: If granted, the permit includes specific terms regarding the route, timetable, fare structure, and other operational details that must be adhered to by the permit holder.
Impact on Stakeholders
- For Operators: Obtaining a stage carriage permit is crucial for operating public transport buses along designated routes. Compliance with all specified conditions is mandatory.
- For the Public: Ensures that the bus services are safe, efficient, and adequately meet the transportation needs of the public along specified routes.
Section 70 is pivotal in regulating the public transportation system, ensuring that stage carriages operate effectively within the framework designed to meet public transport needs while maintaining safety and efficiency.
