Driving Test to be videographed from April 1

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a move to prevent foul play in issuing driving licences, the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) has decided to videograph the practical tests for candidates.
 Transport Commissioner A Hemachandran told ‘Express’ that the decision would come into effect on April 1. ‘’The ‘H’ test and ‘8’ test for those appearing for four-wheel and two-wheel driving tests respectively will be video recorded. It will ensure that only eligible candidates pass the test,’’ he said. The Transport Commissioner also said that the move would put an end to the complaints of MVD officials helping candidates to clear the test.
 ‘’Several studies, including those carried out by the Department, had pointed out that around 70 per cent of road accidents occur due to the inexperience or negligence on the part of the drivers. The only remedy is to ensure the capability of candidates,’’ Hemachandran, who also holds the charge of Road Safety Commissioner, said.
 The videos will be transferred to CDs on a daily basis and kept at the Regional Transport Offices concerned. Random checking of the CDs has also been planned, the Commissioner said. The Department also plans to hold four wheeler and three wheeler tests on alternate days at sub-RTOs having a single vehicle inspector.  
 The MVD had recently made it strict for the candidates to take the ‘H’ and ‘8’ tests in running without letting the engine to go off. The decision had sparked off widespread criticism from candidates and driving schools.
 The pass percentage too witnessed a steep fall after the new decision was implemented on March 12. On an average, only 50 per cent of the candidates now get through the test everyday. The driving schools had alleged that the move would only help the neighbouring states where driving tests are far more easy. Refuting the criticisms, the Transport Commissioner said that the fall in pass percentage was not a cause for worry. ‘’When compared to several foreign countries, driving test is less tedious here. The alarming increase in accident rate should be the actual cause of concern. What the department wants is the safety of drivers, travellers and pedestrians,’’ he said.