In an attempt to enable heavy motor vehicle drivers upgrade their skills, the Transport Department is planning to set up an exclusive research and training institute for drivers in the State, in collaboration with the Central Government.
The department has already sent a revised project report to the Centre and is waiting for the response. More than 28 acres has been identified at Darsi in Prakasam district to establish the institute at a cost of over Rs.17 crore.
Testing track, simulator, equipment for imparting training to drivers, hostel rooms, classrooms and other facilities have been proposed at the institute.
“After getting approval from the Centre, we will complete the formalities and establish the institute within 18 months,” said Transport Department Joint Commissioner (Vigilance and Road Safety) S.A.V. Prasada Rao. He explained that there would be separate training modules for new applicants and those applying for renewal of licence once in three years.
He further said that the Maruti Suzuki India Limited would be extending its support in maintaining the institute. The focus would be mainly on precautions to be taken by drivers while driving at night.
The institute will help the government in analysing the reasons for accidents in the State.
According to Mr. Rao, the department is also contemplating to utilise two testing tracks at Gannavaram and Nandigama, along with zonal training centres of the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) to train the drivers.
Two-day refresher training would soon be made mandatory for heavy vehicle drivers who apply for the renewal of license.
This initiative would provide drivers to upgrade their skills, he added.
Testing tracks at Gannavaram and Nandigama, RTC zonal training centres to be utilised to train drivers
28 acres identified in Prakasam district for the institute
Over Rs. 17 cr. to be invested on the infrastructure
Testing track, simulator, equipment and other facilities planned
Facility to come up within 18 months after Centre’s approval
