Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala: The driving schools launched by KSRTC have turned out to be quite popular due to the quality training offered at affordable rates. 

To attract more people, KSRTC has added 21 new cars to its fleet. The flag-off ceremony of the vehicles was conducted at the Anayara Swift headquarters by KSRTC CMD Promoj Shankar. 

Currently, nine driving schools are operational, including one at the Thiruvananthapuram Staff Training College (STC), and the network will expand to 12 locations.

The driving schools, aimed at providing quality training at an affordable cost, have proven to be highly profitable for KSRTC. The corporation has succeeded in offering superior training, with a success rate of over 80% in the state's driving tests, compared to the state average of 55%.

In addition to the STC in Thiruvananthapuram, KSRTC operates driving schools in locations such as Vattura, Chathannoor, Chadayamangalam, Attingal, Edappally, Chittoor, Chalakudy, and Mananthavady. The driving schools will also be opened in areas like Kattakkada, Mavelikkara, Nilambur, Payyannur, Ponnani, Edathua, Parassala, Pappanamcode, Poovar, and Nedumangadu.

KSRTC's driving schools offer training at lower rates compared to private institutions. The fee for car driving training is ₹9,000, with the same rate applied to heavy driving training. For two-wheelers, the fee is ₹3,500. Both geared and non-geared two-wheelers are charged the same rate. A special package for both car and two-wheeler training is available for ₹11,000.

The corporation offers discounts of up to 40% compared to private institutions. Private establishments charge around ₹15,000 for heavy driving training, while car driving fees range from ₹12,000 to ₹14,000. The fee for two-wheeler training at private centres is ₹6,000. In addition to Alto K10 cars and Hero bikes, KSRTC also provides training on scooters without gears.