Training begins for four KSRTC women drivers

Thiruvananthapuram: Four of the six women drivers recruited by KSRTC to operate K-SWIFT e-buses are currently undergoing training at Attakulangara KSRTC staff training centre. “After countless rejections from private-bus owners, we are happy that the state government is giving us an opportunity and initiating a change in society that women too can handle heavy vehicles, especially buses,” said Thrissur native Sreekutty K M, 25, one of the four women drivers.Sreekutty is joined by Sheena Sam, 28, from Nilambur, Jisna Joy C, 22, from Thrissur and Anila S, 32, a Thiruvananthapuram native. They are excited to be the forerunner of the KSRTC’s initiative to break gender stereotypes in the public sphere. “My father, a lorry driver, was the one who taught me how to drive a bike at a very young age. With his support, I learnt to drive cars and later accompanied him during work and got trained to drive lorry. Throughout this journey, my father and I have encountered many stares and questions from his colleagues who often asked why he was letting his daughter drive heavy vehicles. However, he confidently brushed off such comments and encouraged me to pursue my interests. Today, he is extremely proud that I am one of the women drivers recruited by KSRTC,” said Jisna.Out of 112 candidates, 62 were shortlisted based on their qualifications; and 24 of them appeared for the driving test. Out of that 11 were finalised; and as six among them hold heavy vehicle licence, they were selected for training. Meanwhile, the rest of the finalised candidates have LMV licence. All the candidates will be subjected to various phases of training under the supervision of transport officers and KSRTC's first woman driver V P Sheela. The first phase of training includes theory classes and road-driving sessions along the different city routes. In the next phase, the candidates will try their hand at K-Swift electric buses.