THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Hasty reforms in driving training by the state transport department are likely to go to waste. The Central Motor Vehicle Department has decided that accredited driving schools with advanced modern systems are needed.

Recently, the state transport department had asked the driving schools to find a 50-cent area location and prepare the necessary facilities for conducting the test. After criticism that it was impossible for ordinary people, the authorities changed their position that the officials would find the place. However, if the Center strictly implements the law, accredited schools with huge investments will come into being. The testing system for licenses will change. Finding the place now, spending money and making arrangements for it will become a waste.

The Central Motor Vehicle Department had decided to make accredited centres mandatory from July 1. There was no further action due to the election.

Kerala cannot stay away from the central law. Driving schools alone do not have the financial capacity to start accredited schools. They will have to start it as a group. Fees for driving lessons will also increase. Some agencies have already entered the field of driving training. Some cooperatives have applied for accredited centres.

The driving schools are demanding financial assistance from the government while implementing the reform.

One acre for light motor and two-acre for heavy

• According to the central law, two-wheeler, three-wheeler and light motor vehicles need one acre and heavy passenger vehicles need two acres of land.
• Two classrooms with a computer, multimedia projector, broadband connectivity and biometric attendance system are required. Apart from traffic-driving lessons, the curriculum also includes first aid, vehicle mechanics etc.
• A driving track is needed to practice curves, 8 shape, uphill and reverse.
• Insurance cover should be ensured for the workshop trainer and training vehicle.
• The owner or employee of the establishment must have a record of excellence in motor mechanisms.

The tenure of the institution is five years, after which it has to be renewed

"Until the central government issues an order that the accredited system should be implemented, the current system should continue."

- MS. Prasad,

General Secretary, All Kerala Motor Driving School Instructors and Workers Association