MTC intensifies training sessions for drivers, conductors

Before increasing the bus fares, the MTC registered around 50 to 55 lakh commuters per day. “Nearly 35 lakh commuters use MTC buses every day. We lost a chunk of regular commuters after revision of bus fares this February,” said a senior official from MTC.

“Various factors contributed to the decline in numbers ranging from the introduction of Chennai Metro to cab aggregators. Currently, the commuters have a wide variety of options to choose their ride,” he said.

“The crew are sent in small batches, of six to eight personnel, to attend this training. Although it is in existence for the last 35 years, we have increased the number of sessions since last month. We pick people belonging to various depots, and plan to cover the total staff strength before this year,” said the Managing Director of MTC, A Anbu Abraham.   

The sessions are conducted on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, under the direct supervision of assistant managers stationed at the centers. 

As part of the training, the drivers are briefed about the safety aspects, to give better mileage for conserving diesel and reduce road mishaps. Whereas, the conductors are trained to increase the collection or revenue, to be people-friendly, and halt at all the stops are a few aspects of it.

The MTC provides training to the bus drivers and conductors at its training centers located at Chrompet, Aynavaram, Tondiarpet and Adyar. 

The personnel undergo training when public complaints are lodged against them or involved in road mishaps, said Natarajan, the treasurer of Labour Progressive Federation. 

The MTC is currently operating with 3,716 buses and over 3,200 buses on the road. It has a strength of over 23,000 employees.