<p>As truck drivers are most susceptible to HIV and AIDS, Lions Clubs International (LCI), in co-ordination with Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), will set up awareness and screening centres at fuel stations on highways in the State.<br /><br /></p>.<p>To begin with, LCI and IOC have identified Bangalore-Mysore (SH-17) and Bangalore-Bellary Highway Road (NH-7). The centre will come up at alternate IOC fuel stations on the two highways. International Association of Lions Clubs Districts 317-F District governor R Kumar said there are around 20 fuel stations on NH-7, of which 10 have been identified for setting up these centres. Same in the case with SH-17.<br /><br />“We want to start these centres by January 2014 with an entailed expenditure of Rs 30 lakh, but the final cost of the whole project will only be known at a later stage. We are also working on setting up condom-vending machines,” he added.<br /><br />IOC Bangalore Division Head G Ramesh said they decided to come up with such centres since truck drivers are the most neglected people. They spend most of the time travelling and not cared for. They also form a very important link in the logistics chain. Thus, their health and safety is very important. <br /><br />“These drivers are uneducated and unaware of the benefits of condom. They are also not aware of the diseases. This is a step to help them as this segment is the most exposed to HIV/AIDS. Further, by making them aware, they will take home a message for their children, wives and others they are associated with. They will also become the chain of communication and spreading awareness,” he said.<br /><br />Ramesh said these drivers are reluctant to approach a chemist or a store to purchase a condom. But with the vending machine, they can easily make their purchases. In case people are unaware of how to use the machine, a helper will guide them. LCI will also set up such centres in Bangalore for autorickshaw drivers. To begin with, they are chalking out plans to tie up with the South Western Railways.<br /><br />Karnataka AIDS Prevention Centre counsellor Rajarajeshwari S H said in July they had conducted an HIV/AIDS awareness camp for truck drivers. “Interestingly, 200 truck drivers had participated and all of them were HIV negative. This is a very good sign that they are becoming aware of the virus, the disease and the safety measures. Upcoming programmes and such centres will be beneficia,” she said</p>
<p>As truck drivers are most susceptible to HIV and AIDS, Lions Clubs International (LCI), in co-ordination with Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), will set up awareness and screening centres at fuel stations on highways in the State.<br /><br /></p>.<p>To begin with, LCI and IOC have identified Bangalore-Mysore (SH-17) and Bangalore-Bellary Highway Road (NH-7). The centre will come up at alternate IOC fuel stations on the two highways. International Association of Lions Clubs Districts 317-F District governor R Kumar said there are around 20 fuel stations on NH-7, of which 10 have been identified for setting up these centres. Same in the case with SH-17.<br /><br />“We want to start these centres by January 2014 with an entailed expenditure of Rs 30 lakh, but the final cost of the whole project will only be known at a later stage. We are also working on setting up condom-vending machines,” he added.<br /><br />IOC Bangalore Division Head G Ramesh said they decided to come up with such centres since truck drivers are the most neglected people. They spend most of the time travelling and not cared for. They also form a very important link in the logistics chain. Thus, their health and safety is very important. <br /><br />“These drivers are uneducated and unaware of the benefits of condom. They are also not aware of the diseases. This is a step to help them as this segment is the most exposed to HIV/AIDS. Further, by making them aware, they will take home a message for their children, wives and others they are associated with. They will also become the chain of communication and spreading awareness,” he said.<br /><br />Ramesh said these drivers are reluctant to approach a chemist or a store to purchase a condom. But with the vending machine, they can easily make their purchases. In case people are unaware of how to use the machine, a helper will guide them. LCI will also set up such centres in Bangalore for autorickshaw drivers. To begin with, they are chalking out plans to tie up with the South Western Railways.<br /><br />Karnataka AIDS Prevention Centre counsellor Rajarajeshwari S H said in July they had conducted an HIV/AIDS awareness camp for truck drivers. “Interestingly, 200 truck drivers had participated and all of them were HIV negative. This is a very good sign that they are becoming aware of the virus, the disease and the safety measures. Upcoming programmes and such centres will be beneficia,” she said</p>
