'Sarathy' server crashes, driving test drags on

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Although driving tests were resumed in the state yesterday, only 1,100 people were able to participate in the tests. A large number of applicants did not get the slot due to the server failure of the Central Motor Vehicle Department's 'Sarathy' website.

With Minister Ganesh Kumar softening his stance on the number of tests to be carried out in a day, it was expected that the driving tests would move smoothly from yesterday. 40 people arrived yesterday at the test ground in Muttathara in Thiruvananthapuram. As many as 80 people can easily take the test here. Even the number of applicants who passed the test was not uploaded on the website due to server failure. Driving schools were on strike for the last two weeks. The number of new applicants has decreased over the last few weeks.

The server issue will be resolved only by May 18. May 18 happens to be Saturday. May 19, Sunday is a holiday. This means that driving tests can be properly carried out only from May 20. Till then, driving tests will be conducted for those who got the slots earlier. As many as two and a quarter lakh applications are pending.

The learner's test cannot be conducted till May 20 as it is conducted online. The Commissionerate has directed the MVD offices to allot another day for those who are supposed to appear for the test on these days. The direction that the certified instructors should bring the applicants to the test ground has also led to the non-cooperation of the driving schools. Efforts are being made to reach a consensus on this. INTUC and CITU approached Minister Ganesh Kumar seeking a relexation. The requirement that certified trainers should accompany the applicants to the ground was clarified by the minister after the discussion on Wednesday.