KSRTC to launch recruitment drive

KOCHI: Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) is soon to start a recruitment drive through Employment Exchange in the district from Thursday. This is an attempt to overcome acute staff shortage faced by Kochi Corporation.At least 500 vacant positions are expected to be filled within two weeks. Though people will be hired through the Employment Exchange, they will have to undergo a test. The Corporation officials said that the test will be held at Piravom Transport Station and the process will be completed within two weeks.The drivers would have to undergo a road test after which they would be called for an interview. “This is the easiest way to temporarily fill in the shortage which is affecting the Corporation in a huge way,” said P L Jose, Ernakulam Zonal Officer.He also said that the employees hired through Employment Exchange do not stick to their jobs as bus drivers and conductors because they do not get any privileges of a government job. Jose added, “We know that more than 25 per cent of those hired through Employment Exchange will not stick to their jobs. Also, the vacancies will continue to be an issue even after two months of hiring.” Last year, of the seventy people selected through Employment Exchange, the majority opted out.