In all cases of disputes in respect of the time-table for Stage Carriage on a route or area, the decision of the Transport Authority granting the permit or of the officer authorised under the rule shall be final :

Provided that irrespective of the date of grant of permit, preference shall be given to a State Transport Undertaking, the Transport Co-operative Society, Ex-Servicemen and an owner of a vehicle under Additional Employment Programme, regarding fixation of time-table.