Driving Practices Among Truckers
A recent study by SaveLIFE Foundation (SLF), in collaboration with Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M), reveals that truck drivers work an average of 12 hours daily, covering about 417 kilometers. Alarmingly, nearly 50% of drivers admit to operating their vehicles while feeling fatigued or sleepy.
Corruption Costs in the Industry
The survey indicates that in 2019, truck drivers and fleet owners collectively paid an astounding ₹47,852 crore (approximately $6.7 billion) in bribes, which is more than double the ₹22,048 crore reported in 2006-07. This data comes from a corruption study conducted by the Centre for Media Studies and MDRA.
Social Security and Earnings
Based on responses from 1,217 truck drivers and 101 fleet owners in 10 cities, the majority (93%) reported a lack of social security benefits such as pensions, health insurance, and gratuity. Additionally, around 53% of drivers stated their monthly earnings range between ₹10,000 to ₹20,000.
Dissatisfaction in the Trucking Profession
The report highlights that truck drivers are essential to the logistics sector yet face significant vulnerabilities due to the fragmented trucking industry. More than half of the surveyed drivers expressed dissatisfaction with their profession, and 84% would not recommend trucking to their family or relatives. Two-thirds cited a lack of job security and safety on the road as the main reasons for their discontent.
Health and Safety Concerns
Health issues are prevalent among truck drivers, with many suffering from back pain, muscle discomfort, and gastrointestinal problems. Notably, 95% reported consuming food from roadside dhabas. Over two-thirds (67.1%) indicated feeling overburdened with assignments, often leading to speeding. Disturbingly, 90% admitted to not receiving formal training before obtaining their driving licenses, and 22% have resorted to using drugs during their trips.
Government Initiatives for Road Safety
General (retd) VK Singh, minister of state for road transport and highways, noted that the report raises critical issues affecting road safety. The Central Government is implementing various initiatives to enhance road conditions, including reforms in driver licensing, recalling defective vehicles, and electronic monitoring to tackle corruption.
Challenges in the Trucking Sector
The informal structure of the trucking industry limits drivers’ access to benefits typical in other sectors, and there is a notable shortage of truck drivers in India. With approximately two million truck drivers and a driver-to-truck ratio of 750 to 1000, around 25% to 30% of trucks are idle at any given time, leaving those employed in the sector overworked. Although the amended Motor Vehicle Act was introduced, significant changes are still awaited, as only six to seven states have implemented the new rules. Piyush Tewari, CEO of Save Life Foundation, anticipates a reduction in corruption once the system is streamlined.
