Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Sep 9: Obtaining a driving licence has become more stringent with the introduction of a computerised vehicle driving test track. From now on, candidates will have to skilfully drive on a designated track and pass a computerised evaluation in order to secure a licence.
The state-of-the-art electronic test track constructed at Kambalapadavu near Mudipu at a cost of Rs 7 crore came into full operation from September 1. Earlier, the driving tests under the Mangaluru regional transport office (RTO) limits were held at Vamanjoor. The testing centre was shifted to Kambalapadavu on August 18. Until now, the tests were conducted manually under the supervision of RTO inspectors, but with the launch of the computerised system, everything is now monitored and evaluated digitally.
On the track, more than 50 sensor poles have been installed on both sides. These are fitted with green lights, which turn red if a vehicle touches them, sending an alert to the system. Unlike the earlier manual model, the computerised system ensures error-free assessment, RTO officials informed.
Application process
Applicants must first obtain a learner’s licence (LLR) and wait for one month before applying online for a permanent driving licence (DL). Once a slot is booked, the applicant has to appear at the testing centre on the scheduled date. At the centre, the computer records and verifies the applicant’s photo before permitting the test. The candidate has to complete the track within the specified time limit, and the result is generated immediately. Successful candidates receive their smart card licence by post within a few days.
For two-wheeler tests, candidates who hit the sensor poles more than eight times are declared failed. In case of failure, they can reappear after seven days by paying a fee of Rs 300. For four-wheeler tests, apart from driving on the track, candidates must also reverse the vehicle in an ‘S’ pattern and park it in a designated slot without touching the poles. Strict compliance with these rules is mandatory.
Senior RTO officer Sridhar Mallad said that only those who develop perfection in driving will clear the test. “With better driving skills, accidents will come down,” he stated.
Capacity and management
Cascade Pvt Ltd has been entrusted with the maintenance of the test track. The facility is manned by 17 staff members from the company along with RTO inspectors and office personnel. At present, around 100 candidates appear daily for the test, but the computerised system has the capacity to test up to 200 candidates per day. Applicants for heavy vehicle licences will undergo a one-day training session conducted by KSRTC.
The centre has been built on 10 acres of land, with four acres utilised for the track and facilities. Administrative offices, seating arrangements, toilets, and drinking water facilities have also been provided for the convenience of the public, officials informed.
No more mobile test camps
Earlier, under the manual system, test camps were held weekly in Mulki and Moodbidri. With the new set-up, these camps will no longer be conducted. Applicants from Mulki, Moodbidri, Ullal, and Mangaluru city areas will now have to come to the Kambalapadavu centre for their driving tests.
The Mangaluru centre is one among the seven such electronic driving test facilities set up across Karnataka.