Telangana faces shortage of heavy vehicle drivers

Due to regulations requiring two drivers for long-haul trips, some vehicle cleaners — who are not qualified to drive — have been stepping in, which increases the risk of accidents, experts said.

According to industry data, there are over one crore commercial goods vehicles across India, including around 5.9 lakh in Telangana. Experts note that fewer young people are interested in pursuing driving as a profession.

The experts urged the government to open specialised driving schools in each district, introduce entrance tests after Class 12, and provide comprehensive training with hostel facilities and stipends to attract fresh talent.

Balaraj, a sand lorry owner, pointed out that around 35,000 to 40,000 sand lorries operate in the state. Drivers often do round trips of 600 km each and earn about ₹5,000 per trip, which includes all expenses. Despite these earnings, the profession struggles to attract new entrants.

Manchireddy Rajender Reddy, president of a local transport association, highlighted the lack of medical facilities, insurance, and incentives for drivers. He pointed out that a public-private partnership (PPP) model driving school for heavy commercial vehicles was established in Sircilla following Telangana’s formation.

However, its remote location has resulted in low enrollment. “If each district had a similar driving school, it could address the shortage by training and encouraging youth,” he said.

Reddy added that most drivers are older than 50 and require regular health check-ups — at the very least, eye examinations. He warned that the shortage of qualified drivers could lead to disruptions in transporting essential goods and an increased risk of accidents if untrained cleaners take the wheel.

With many drivers forced to share their seats with unqualified cleaners during long-distance trips, experts are calling on the government to take swift action to improve driver training, healthcare provisions, and overall working conditions in the transport sector.