In a move aimed at strengthening road safety and improving the quality of public transport services, the Transport Department, Government of Manipur, today launched a three-day refresher training programme for Manipur State Transport (MST) drivers and conductors at the Institute of Drivers Training and Research Centre (IDTRC), Top Dussara, Imphal East.
The programme has been designed to enhance professional skills and operational readiness as MST bus services are set to resume on several routes across the State, including remote and hill districts where public buses remain a critical lifeline for daily movement.
Emphasis on Safety, Skill and Service
Officials said the refresher course focuses on road safety, defensive driving techniques, passenger etiquette, and emergency preparedness, recognising the evolving challenges of road transport and the need for service-oriented professionalism.
Special attention is being given to safe driving practices in difficult terrain, adherence to traffic norms, and handling unforeseen situations such as breakdowns, accidents, and medical emergencies during journeys.
Conductors are being trained on improved passenger interaction, ticketing discipline, crowd management, and ensuring dignity and comfort for commuters, including elderly passengers, women, children, and persons with disabilities.
Adapting to New Technologies
The training programme also introduces participants to emerging technologies being incorporated into the State’s transport system. Sessions include familiarisation with GPS-based vehicle monitoring, automated ticketing systems, and operational aspects linked to the introduction of electric buses.
Officials noted that adapting to technology-driven transport management is essential for improving route efficiency, tracking bus performance, and ensuring accountability, while also reducing operational delays and enhancing passenger confidence.
Preparing for Service Resumption
With MST services expected to gradually restart on key routes, the refresher course serves as a preparatory platform to ensure that drivers and conductors are physically alert, technically updated, and mentally prepared to handle increased public demand.
The Government highlighted that a well-trained transport workforce is central to restoring trust in public bus services, particularly in rural and hill areas where alternative transport options are often limited or unaffordable.
Commitment to Citizen-Centric Transport
Officials from the Transport Department stated that the training reflects the Government of Manipur’s broader commitment to building a safe, reliable, and people-friendly public transport system.
“Public buses are not just vehicles; they are essential public services,” an official said, adding that improving service standards directly impacts accessibility to education, healthcare, markets and employment, especially for communities in far-flung regions.
Continuous Capacity Building
The refresher course is part of a larger strategy of continuous capacity building for transport personnel, aimed at raising professional standards and fostering a culture of responsibility and courtesy on the roads.
By investing in training, infrastructure, and technological upgrades, the Government is working towards a transport system that is not only efficient but also responsive to the needs and safety of citizens.
The programme will continue over the next two days with practical sessions, demonstrations, and interactive discussions, culminating in reinforced operational readiness ahead of MST service resumption.