Kollam: The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) often associated with financial losses, has found a profitable avenue through its driving schools. In just six months, these training centres have generated more than ₹55 lakh in revenue. With the schools not yet fully operational and a high number of trainees enrolled, those who register may have to wait up to a year for their turn to practice. To address this demand, KSRTC is working on opening more centres.

Currently, nine driving schools are operational across Kerala, including locations in Chadayamangalam, Chathannoor, Attingal, Thiruvananthapuram Staff Training Center, Vithura, Edapal, Chalakudy, Chittur and Mananthavady. Preparations for training grounds in Mavelikara and Kattakada are progressing rapidly, with both centres set to open by March.

The training fees are ₹9,000 for a heavy-light motor licence and ₹3,500 for a two-wheeler licence. Those opting for both licences together are required to pay ₹11,000. The training duration includes 20 classes for two-wheelers and 30 classes for other vehicles. Sessions run from 6 am to 6 pm, with special training provided on Saturdays and Sundays for those pursuing a heavy motor vehicle (HMV) licence. Due to high demand, hundreds of people have already registered and are awaiting their turn. Currently, the driving schools have a total of 22 cars and 32 two-wheelers for training purposes.

The instructors at these centres are experienced professionals from KSRTC and KSRTC Swift. To qualify as a lead trainer, individuals must have held a heavy motor vehicle licence for at least five years. So far, around 700 people have successfully completed training through KSRTC’s driving schools. The revenue generated stands at ₹55 lakh, with profits estimated to be around ₹30 lakh after deducting employee salaries and operational expenses.