Thiruvananthapuram: The introduction of breathalyser tests for Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) drivers has reportedly led to a significant decrease in bus-related accidents and incidents of misconduct.

Previously, an average of 5-7 people were killed in KSRTC bus accidents each week. This number has now reduced to fewer than three deaths per week following the implementation of stricter testing norms. The number of major and minor accidents has also decreased, dropping from 30-35 per week to fewer than 25. Additionally, there has been a reduction in instances of misbehaviour towards passengers.

In light of these positive trends, it has been decided to enforce even stricter inspections across all services, including SWIFT.

A monitoring committee has closely examined fatal accidents occurring after the implementation of breathalyser tests. Strict penalties will continue to be imposed in cases where KSRTC drivers are found at fault.

Last week, an accident in Ernakulam, in which a motorcyclist was killed after a collision with a Scania bus, was determined to be entirely the fault of the KSRTC driver, who has since been suspended.

To date, 204 employees have been suspended following inspections, with over a hundred of them being drivers. Contract and daily wage workers found in violation have faced dismissal.

However, a shortage of breathalysers at depots remains a challenge to effective testing. The procurement process for additional breathalysers has not yet been completed.

KSRTC authorities have noted that many drivers operating at night were found to be using drugs. Bus services are frequently disrupted as drivers who were intoxicated the previous night test positive the next morning, preventing them from reporting to work. To address this issue, services will be maintained by employing alternate staff.