Qualification for driving schools…
— The accreditation process entails meeting specific requirements laid out by the Ministry of Transport.
— These requirements include the possession of simulators, dedicated driving tracks, biometric attendance systems, qualified instructors, e-payment facilities, real-time evaluation, online evaluation processes, and adequate staff resources.
— Additionally, accredited driving training centres must have two classrooms equipped with teaching aids such as computers and multimedia projectors for conducting theory classes on traffic rules and regulations, driving procedures, and public relations.
Goemkarponn desk
PANAJI: The recent announcement by the Ministry of Road Transport regarding the accreditation of driving training centres across India has brought to light how much the State of Goa is lagging behind other states in terms of technology and development.
As of June 1, 2021, driving licenses will be granted from accredited driving schools in every part of the country but the same would not be applicable in the State of Goa.
This exclusion is attributed to the absence of advanced driving centres in Goa that meet the necessary criteria set by the Ministry of Transport, Government of India.
Despite the presence of approximately 126 driving schools in Goa, none of them have attained accredited status.
The accreditation process entails meeting specific requirements laid out by the Ministry of Transport.
These requirements include the possession of simulators, dedicated driving tracks, biometric attendance systems, qualified instructors, e-payment facilities, real-time evaluation, online evaluation processes, and adequate staff resources.
Additionally, accredited driving training centres must have two classrooms equipped with teaching aids such as computers and multimedia projectors for conducting theory classes on traffic rules and regulations, driving procedures, and public relations.
The absence of accredited driving training centres in Goa has raised concerns about the potential impact on individuals seeking to obtain a driving license.
According to the new rules outlined in the Central Motor Vehicles (Eleventh Amendment) Rules, 2021, individuals who successfully complete their training at an accredited driving center are exempt from taking a driving test at the Regional Transport Office (RTO) when applying for a driving license. However, with no accredited centers in Goa, aspiring drivers in the state may face additional hurdles in obtaining their licenses.
The Ministry of Road Transport’s decision to mandate accreditation for driving training centres is aimed at ensuring that candidates receive proper training and knowledge, ultimately contributing to the production of skilled drivers and enhancing road safety.
The rules set forth by the ministry emphasize the importance of monitoring the operation of accredited centres and ensuring compliance through regular and surprise audits and inspections.
It is evident that the absence of accredited driving training centers in Goa poses a significant challenge for individuals seeking to acquire driving licenses. The state transport authority and relevant stakeholders must address this issue promptly to ensure that Goa’s residents have access to accredited driving centers that meet the necessary requirements.
The establishment of accredited centers in Goa would not only benefit aspiring drivers but also contribute to the overall improvement of road safety in the state.
“On June 7, the ministry of road transport has published a notification wherein the requirements to be fulfilled by accredited driver training centres have been mandated to help them impart proper training and knowledge to candidates,” said a transport official.
“The new rules that will be called the Central Motor Vehicles (Eleventh Amendment) Rules, 2021, come into effect from July 1, 2021. They will help the state get skilled drivers and this will surely have a positive impact on road safety,” he pointed out.
