People may think it is an easy job, but the school bus drivers have a more stressful job than even a regular KSRTC bus driver. They have to get up early, reach the school and each pick-up point on time, maintain the vehicle and also look after the children they are ferrying. They also have to deal with anxious parents, who keep calling them if they do not reach the pick-up or drop point on time.
Driving safely, following traffic rules at all times while avoiding unruly commuters, navigating around double-parked vehicles, and stopping for oblivious jaywalkers is definitely stressful considering that the driver is carrying children in his vehicle.
Then there is the element of insecurity over payment. Many don't have a supplementary income and only rely on the school trips for their earnings. I don't think people in fancy job profiles can even imagine a one- and- a- half-hour road trip with some 60 children in the vehicle, who may be even cranky or rude.
It is definitely not easy. All these issues should be borne in mind and the drivers offered benefits like full time employees and given health and other benefits which they cannot afford. High blood pressure and musculoskeletal and gastrointestinal problems are some of the most common health issues that plague bus drivers and they could do help with treating them.
The writer is Professor and HOD, Department of Psychiatry, Victoria Hospital.
