Kochi: Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) will finally implement the driver-cum-conductor posts in 42 long haul services, mostly to Bangalore, from October 5.
“The system will be enforced in most of the services where standing passengers are not allowed (Super Deluxe, Silverline Jet, Minnal and Multi-axle Volvo). Nearly 100 personnel have already got training and we have identified more drivers with conductor licences,” said a senior official.
The management also plans to “rent out” private luxury buses and operate them on long distance routes like Velankanni. “This will help us avoid the maintenance cost while providing luxury travel to commuters. Already talks are on with several operators,” the official said.
The Corporation has formed the Service Rules for the new posts being introduced as part of cost cutting efforts. It will also help in preventing a single driver working for over eight hours at a stretch in long haul buses.
The new system will help the Corporation save ‘seven manpower’ and a seat in long-haul services. At present, two drivers and a conductor are deployed on a single inter-state service bus including those operating on the Thiruvananthapuram-Bengaluru route.
For a single trip in both directions, they are eligible for a pay equivalent to seven ‘duty assignments’. If both drivers obtain the conductor’s licence, the Corporation will be able to save several hours of manpower and a seat on a single service.
“They can take turns to be at the wheel on long trips which will allow both rest and avoid exhausting duty hours. The system, already being implemented by respective Corporations in other states including Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, will improve safety and enhance efficiency,” the official said.
