Instead of 10-min lesson, overhaul learner's licence system: Experts
Hyderabad: Although the Centre has introduced a mandatory ten-minute lesson on road safety for learner's licence applicants on the Sarathi portal, experts suggest that such awareness initiatives are unlikely to improve road safety standards.
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Meanwhile, the experts urged the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) to implement comprehensive reforms to the driving licence framework, including improved driving training and enforcement mechanisms.
They also suggested that authorities should provide certified private driving schools to conduct tests, establish uniform training standards and implement a demerit points structure for traffic rule violations.
'Multimedia presentations futile'
The centralised Sarathi portal streamlines processes such as driving licences, vehicle registrations, permits, and other transport transactions. It now requires users to complete a road safety tutorial before proceeding with the online learner's licence test.
Currently, the Sarathi system is being trialled at the Secunderabad RTA. It will soon be implemented across all regional transport centres in Greater Hyderabad, including Khairatabad.
"Multimedia presentations, including audio and video materials, have proven ineffective in raising road safety awareness," said Vinod Kanumala, an expert from the Indian Federation of Road Safety. He has been conducting road safety awareness programmes for the past 25 years.
Learner's test needs to be updated
He emphasised that the questions in the learner's test have become outdated and require modernisation, particularly noting the absence of questions about pelican crossings.
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He also stressed the importance of reforming the driving licence system and advocated for the establishment of training schools for two-wheeler riders, as they are involved in 50% of accidents. "These schools should provide instruction on safe driving in monsoon and foggy conditions," he added.
"Road safety awareness programmes alone are ineffective in enhancing safety standards on the roads. The authorities should implement strict regulations requiring drivers to undergo proper training, linking it to parking fee payments through their vehicle registration numbers if they fail to provide a certificate from the driving institute," said Dheerendra Samineni, a road safety expert, chief trainer and founder of Safe Drive India.
Lack of awareness increases accident rate
Furthermore, RTA officials say that a lack of awareness is contributing to the increased accident rate. "Nearly 80% of road incidents are caused by human error, primarily due to speeding and drink-driving. It is crucial to provide education and proper guidance during the initial licensing process to ensure that drivers understand safety protocols before they start driving on the roads," said M Chandrasekhar Goud, joint transport commissioner (IT & Vigilance).
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