Driver Shortage Raises Concerns Over KSRTC Sabarimala Special Bus Services
Thiruvananthapuram: A severe shortage of drivers in the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has raised concerns over the operation of special bus services during the upcoming Sabarimala Mandala-Makaravilakku pilgrimage season.
With thousands of Ayyappa devotees expected to depend on KSRTC buses to reach Sabarimala, the shortage of drivers could affect the smooth operation of special services.
The situation is particularly serious at the Thiruvananthapuram depot, where there is a shortage of 66 drivers. Efforts to recruit temporary drivers through the Employment Exchange have not been successful.
Currently, temporary drivers are offered a daily wage of Rs 715. However, trade unions have demanded that the amount be increased to Rs 900 to attract more workers. The shortage became more serious after drivers recently recruited through the Employment Exchange left their jobs.
KSRTC has once again written to the Employment Exchange requesting additional drivers to address the shortage.
Meanwhile, applications have been invited to fill 385 driver posts, 310 driver-cum-conductor posts and 345 conductor posts for KSRTC Swift buses.
However, concerns remain that the shortage could affect Sabarimala special bus services if enough employees are not recruited before the pilgrimage season begins.
As the number of pilgrims travelling to Sabarimala is expected to increase significantly during the Mandala-Makaravilakku season, arranging sufficient drivers and conductors will be a major challenge for KSRTC. Timely recruitment will be essential to ensure uninterrupted bus services for devotees.