The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has revoked its revised order on breath analyser tests for staff to check alcohol content in their bodies in view of its alleged misuse by some people.

The corporation had recently issued an order revising its procedure for breath analyser tests after T.K. Shibeesh, one of its drivers from Kozhikode, who had consumed a homoeopathic medicine before reporting for duty, tested positive for alcohol content on March 30. The new guidelines said that those on medication could undergo a retest after 20 minutes if their initial result was positive. This followed reports that the breath analyser could yield positive results for people on certain medications. Such staff could be deployed for duty only if they tested negative in the retest.

However, in a new order issued on April 7, the Executive Director (Vigilance), KSRTC, said some staff had been “misusing the provisions in the new order” and that it could “affect the reputation of the corporation.” In this context, the revised order would be withdrawn, the official added.

The KSRTC began conducting breath analyser tests for its staff following complaints that some were reporting for duty allegedly under the influence of alcohol. The corporation mandates strict disciplinary action, including suspension from service, against those found guilty. Mr. Shibeesh, a native of Malayamma in the district, was asked to undergo a detailed test before a medical board and the Vigilance wing of the KSRTC at its headquarters in the State capital. However, his claims were found to be valid. Alcohol content is present in some ayurvedic and homoeopathic medicines. Doctors said that these were not hazardous and advised that patients should take the breath analyser test an hour or so after consuming such medicines.