Andhra Pradesh

AIDS threat to APSRTC crew?

HYDERABAD: Is the dreaded HIV posing a threat to the APSRTC crew? It appears so. About 10 to 12 drivers and conductors are stated to be visiting the voluntary counselling and testing centres every month. And many of them are turning out to be HIV positive. This has come to light during examination of reports received from various HIV testing centres in Andhra Pradesh by the A.P. State AIDS Control Society (APSACS).

The malady is said to be more among long distance bus drivers and conductors. Likewise long distance truckers are also vulnerable since they are exposed to sex workers. Alarmed at this disturbing trend in an organised sector, the APSACS has decided to take up HIV/AIDS intervention for RTC personnel, especially the long distance drivers, conductors and mechanical staff. APSACS project director R.V. Chandravadan has already written to the APSRTC VC&MD, V. Dinesh Reddy, on the matter and the latter has agreed to the proposal. To make it a sustainable programme, a MoU will be signed soon.

There are of 42,531 drivers and 41,235 conductors in the APSRTC. Of this, the long distance crew number 9,870. This mobile group, often separated from their families, is in the age group of 35 to 45 and indulges in unsafe sex. “If due care is not given, the situation might go out of hand,” said Mr. Chandravadan.

The National AIDS Control Organisation has identified 13 Ministries, including the Ministry of Road Transport, Highways and Shipping for mainstreaming of HIV/AIDS. The APSACS plans to sensitise the RTC workforce on the issue and train peer health educators from among the workforce to promote healthy lifestyle. Establishment of Integrated Counselling and Testing Centres at the RTC hospitals in Hyderabad and Karimnagar and training of doctors in the 33 dispensaries are also planned.

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