Section 143 in The Punjab Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989
143. Seating space
. [Section 111] - (1) In every public service vehicle other than a motor cab there shall be provided for each passenger a reasonably comfortable seating space of not less than 375 millimetres square in the case of an ordinary vehicle and 450 millimetres square in the case of a deluxe vehicle, the seats measured on straight lines along and at right anlges to the front of each seat, and,-(a)when the seats are placed along the vehicle, the backs of the seats on the side shall be at least 1.37 metres distant from the backs of the seats on the other side;(b)when the seats are placed across the vehicles and are facing in the same direction there shall be everywhere a clear space of not less than 68.5 centimetres between the backs of the seats;(c)when seats are placed across the vehicles and are facing each other there shall be everywhere a clear space of not less than 1.25 metres, between the backs of facing seats;(d)where seats are placed in such a manner that one row is alongwise the vehicle and the other rows of seats across the vehicle, the clear space between the front and of the longitudinal seats and the nearest part of the transverse seats shall not be less than 450 milimetres; and(e)minimum leg space shall not be less than 254 milimetres in the case of an ordinary vehicle and 380 milimetres in the case of a deluxe vehicle:Provided that for a deluxe vehicle, the following additional specifications shall also apply, namely :-(i)the seats and back rests will be well sprung; and(ii)arms and head rests will be provided.(2)The back of all seats shall be closed to a height of 400 milimetres above seats level:Provided that in the case of a single decked vehicle the State Transport Authority may specify the measurements within the above limits to which public service vehicles or a particular type of public works vehicle, shall conform in specific ares or on hill roads :Provided further than if the Government is satisfied that a particular vehicle or class of vehicles, having the internal height or head room measured along the centre of the vehicle from the top of the floor boards or battens to the underside of the roof supports in excess of the height specified in this rule, is suitable for carrying out any work in furtherance of a public purpose, the Government may, by notification in the Official Gazette, exempt such vehicle or class of vehicles from the provisions of this rule either generally or in such areas or on such routes subject to such conditions, if any as may be specified in the notifications.
