Mangalore: Uniform, ID cards, licence mandatory for bus drivers - RTO

Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (NM)

Mangalore, Jul 18: Bus employees have to compulsorily wear uniform during duty hours. In addition, if the bus drivers fail to produce driving licence during the time of inspection, stringent action will be taken against them,” said RTO Mallikarjuna at a meeting held in the presence of DC N Prakash, DCP Dharmaiah and several representatives, here on Wednesday, July 17.

"Besides, the bus owners must compulsorily issue identity cards to the bus employees. The ID card should have all the details including blood group and photograph of the employee as it can help if any untoward incident takes place," he said.

"Bus owners should provide provident fund (PF) and employee state insurance (ESI) facilities to the employees," he added.
 
Bus owners who were present during the discussion agreed to follow the rules. Around 13 demands put forward by bus workers were discussed in the meeting.

Ivan D’Souza, president of DK District Karmika Parishat Bus Naukarara Sangha said that only those who pass 10th standard are given licence to the bus drivers and conductors. "Since there is a severe shortage of bus workers, the eligibility criteria should be brought down to 7th standard," he said. In response, RTO Mallikarjun said that he would bring this issue to the notice of the government.

New pension scheme, e-ticket system

Assistant labour commissioner Nagesh said that the bus drivers and conductors can avail the benefit of new pension scheme under the Unorganized Workers' Social Security Act. "Only 2,134 people have registered their names. The laborers have to pay Rs 100 per month or Rs 1,200 per annum. After retirement, they will receive the money back in terms of pension,” he added.

"There have been many complaints with regard to not providing bus tickets properly to the passengers. Decision to introduce e-ticket system will be taken and accordingly the conductors will be taught to use the e-ticket system. Speed governors will also be fixed in all the buses," said Mallikarjun.

The bus owners who positively responded to the demands of bus employees informed the RTO that there are a few bus drivers who drink and drive especially after dark. "Due to this, there have been so many accidents, but the burden falls on the bus owners. Strict action needs to be taken," said Bus Owners' Union president Rajavarma Ballal.

In response, Ivan D’Souza said that it will be brought to the notice of all the bus drivers. "We will also support the move to suspend the licence of those who indulge in drunken driving," he added.