The Hyderabad Goods Transporters Association (HGTA) has set up a modern transport training school here, in a first of its kind initiative to tackle the problem of shortage of drivers faced by the domestic transport industry.

Drivers shortage

With a current shortage of two lakh drivers, the transport industry is worried that the problem will grow in the years to come and could slow down the growth in this sector.

The shortage is aggravated by the fact that a large slice of the existing drivers are close to retirement and the new generation is not all that eager to take to this profession.

New generation of skilled drivers

Besides, new models of commercial vehicles hitting the roads today need a new generation of skilled drivers.

“This is the first such kind of centre dedicated to train personnel of transport sector, including truck drivers, cleaners, transport labours and other staff.

The centre, which has been set up at a cost of Rs 2 crore, and inaugurated on Wednesday, can accommodate 300 students every month,” Mr Pawan Kumar Gupta, President of Hyderabad Goods Transport Association (HGTA), told Business Line .

Better driving practices

He said the centre will instil better driving practices and improved fuel efficiency, basic mechanics and safe practices, apart from other aspects of life on the road such as trouble shooting, fire-fighting and first-aid.

Skills offered

The institute will offer both technical and soft skills programme.

“There are four programmes that are offered as vocational certificate courses—these are six months full time programmes, including three months of practical training,” he said.

Optional subjects

Some additional optional subjects such as basic computer course, meditation and yoga (to enable drivers to relax after hours of driving) and life skill development.

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