Low turnout at automated driving test track worries officials

Gagandeep Singh

Tribune News Service

Jalandhar, May 9

Following the inauguration of the much hyped automated driving test track in Jalandhar, made functional after missing several deadlines, the District Transport Department has been dealing with the problem of low turnout of driving licence aspirants.

A visit to the automated track revealed that it wore a deserted look. No applicant was seen taking practical driving test, apart from some employees of the transport department in the office.

One of the employees said that only 25 to 30 people have been turning up to take the driving test.

However, the District Transport Department claimed that 50 to 55 applicants have been participating in the practical test.

One of the factors behind the low turnout is said to be the lack of awareness among the people. The reason is that the people have been hesitating to take the test as they think they might not qualify.

It is notable that such tracks have been inaugurated in other districts of Punjab as well.

District Transport Officer RP Singh said the situation is similar at other automated driving test tracks in the state. The Secretary, Transport, has called a meeting to discuss the issue. “We will do something to sort it out soon,” he added.

It takes around two to three minutes to complete the track. Cameras have been installed to keep a close eye on any mistake committed by the applicant.

The purpose behind laying the track is to provide driving licence to the capable applicant as due to the complex system and alleged irregularities by the transport department, many unfit applicants managed to get the licence that has been causing a traffic nuisance. The purpose will not be served if not many people turn up for driving licence test.