Thiruvalla: Kerala Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar announced that the functioning of KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) will soon be optimised using Artificial Intelligence (AI). He was speaking during the state-level seminar on the Transport Department's Vision 2031.

Highlighting a recurring issue, the Minister said that multiple KSRTC buses often run back-to-back on the same route at the same time. With the help of AI and new software, such overlaps can be identified and resolved effectively.

The system will ensure buses operate on specific routes with precise intervals. Using GPS technology, it will also be possible to pre-empt traffic congestion and adjust schedules accordingly.

Instant digital licences after driving test

The Minister added that driving test inspectors will be provided with tablets, enabling real-time digital processing. Successful candidates will receive their digital driving licence immediately after the test.

In the last 10 months, ₹2.5 crore in profit was generated through KSRTC’s driving schools, he noted. The Minister also said that the government will request the Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC) to introduce a fitness test similar to that of the police for future KSRTC recruitments.

The achievements of the Transport Department over the past decade were presented by Special Secretary P B Nooh.

Prominent attendees included Pathanamthitta District Panchayat president George Abraham, Transport Commissioner Nagaraju Chakilam, Director of Water Transport Department Shaji V Nair, KTDFC MD Annie Joola Thomas, Thiruvalla Sub-Collector Sumit Kumar Thakur and KSRTC MD Dr P S Pramoj Shankar.