MVD withdraws controversial guidelines for driving test, asks officers to make arrangements for test

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The motor vehicle department has withdrawn the controversial directive that the driving school should prepare the ground and tracks for the revised driving test. The move follows Kerala Kaumudi reports that this will lead to the closure of small driving schools and will be replaced by large corporates.

As per the revised guidelines, RTOs and Joint RTOs have to locate the place for the driving test within 15 days and inform the higher authorities. 13.07 cm of space is required for the testing track. It is the responsibility of the officials to prepare the track and provide facilities including toilets, drinking water and vehicle parking. At least 50 cents of space is required. The help of revenue and local authorities can be sought to find a new place. Private land can also be considered if there is no other option. There is no explanation in the circular on how to find the cost.