The Transport Department has proposed to set up an Indian Road Drivers Training and Research Institute, which will serve as a training ground for drivers and help to promote road safety rules.
H.G. Kumar, Joint Transport Commissioner (Enforcement), said that periodic checks against reckless driving were not enough to bring down the number of accidents.
He said that the department would introduce refreshers’ courses for drivers to hone their skills. Many drivers would have learnt the rules during the initial period of training and these courses would help them to be aware of road safety measures.
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“These refreshers courses can be taken up by anyone. However, it will be mandatory for drivers of autorickshaws, lorries, tractors and maxicabs as they are more prone to accidents,” Mr. Kumar said.
He said the State government had purchased 10-acre land in Singanayakanahalli near Doddaballapur for the training institute.
Mr. Kumar said the department would also set up an inspection centre, which would have facilities to check the emission levels and speed levels of vehicles apart from equipment for brake testing.
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A five-acre land in Nelamangala had been bought for Rs. 5 crore for the purpose.
Once the training ground was ready, citizens who wish to procure driver’s licence would have to pass a test there too, he said.
“There are many driving schools in the city, each of which has an inspector to approve the trainers’ proficiency in driving. These inspectors and the trainers will have to undergo training at the institute. Only after getting approval from the training institute, they will be allowed to renew licences for their driving schools,” he said.