The Chandigarh Administration has taken significant strides forward in its mission to bolster road safety and driver education across the region. The UT Transport Department has officially initiated the process to establish a state-of-the-art Regional Driving Training Centre at Raipur Kalan, marking a pivotal development in structured driver training initiatives.
Strategic Partnership and Infrastructure Development
This proposed facility, which is being developed with crucial support from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, is envisioned as a comprehensive regional hub. It aims to centralise and standardise driver training while spearheading road safety campaigns. The department has earmarked approximately four acres of land at Raipur Kalan for this ambitious project and plans to set up the centre through a collaborative partnership with a private agency.
Invitation for Expressions of Interest
To bring this vision to life, the UT Transport Department has invited Expressions of Interest from eligible entities. The call is open to a diverse range of organisations, including non-governmental organisations, automobile associations, bodies representing vehicle manufacturers, autonomous organisations, private vehicle manufacturers, and Industrial Training Institutes that are collaborating with state or central governments. Sealed EOIs must be submitted by February 27, 2026, with the centre slated to become operational following the finalisation of the partner agency.
Comprehensive Training Curriculum and Programmes
Once functional, the institute will roll out an extensive array of training programmes designed to cater to various segments of the driving community. These will include specialised courses for driving instructors, as well as comprehensive training for light motor vehicle and heavy motor vehicle drivers. Additionally, the centre will conduct refresher courses for in-service drivers, with a particular focus on those involved in transporting hazardous and dangerous goods, ensuring they meet the highest safety standards.
Theoretical and Practical Modules
The training curriculum is meticulously structured to cover both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The theoretical component will encompass a wide range of essential topics, such as traffic rules and regulations, basic vehicle mechanics, effective public interaction techniques, first aid procedures, road etiquette, accident causation analysis, and detailed case studies. This foundational knowledge is crucial for fostering responsible driving behaviour and enhancing overall road safety awareness.
On the practical front, trainees will engage in hands-on driving exercises that simulate real-world conditions. The training will include basic and advanced driving skills on diverse terrains, such as city roads, highways, and rural stretches. Participants will also practice specialised manoeuvres, including uphill and downhill driving, reversing, and parking exercises, to ensure they are well-prepared for any driving scenario.
Innovative Assessment and Certification Process
A key highlight of the centre's offerings is its innovative approach to driver assessment. Candidates who successfully complete a month-long course at the facility may be exempted from the conventional driving test. The proposed programme consists of a 29-hour module, with eight hours dedicated to theory and 21 hours to practical training, spread over four weeks. A mandatory minimum attendance of 85 per cent is required to qualify for the certification.
Upon clearing the theory examinations and the assessment conducted by a motor vehicle inspector, candidates will be issued a proficiency certificate. This certificate is expected to be treated as equivalent to the test currently administered at the Children's Traffic Park, streamlining the certification process for trained drivers. However, officials have noted that the final modalities are still under consideration, and further details will be announced in due course.
Continued Testing for Non-Trainees
For applicants who choose not to undergo training at the new centre, the existing testing procedures will remain in place. They will continue to appear for the regular driving test conducted at the Sector 23 facility, ensuring that all aspiring drivers have access to certification pathways.
Broader Impact on Road Safety Initiatives
Beyond individual driver training, the Regional Driving Training Centre is set to play a pivotal role in broader road safety initiatives. It will organise targeted awareness programmes for school bus drivers and students, undertake in-depth accident analysis, and recommend preventive measures to reduce road accidents. Periodic training and evaluation of drivers from state transport undertakings will also be integrated into the curriculum, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and safety compliance.
This initiative underscores Chandigarh's commitment to enhancing road safety through education and training. By establishing a regional hub for driver education, the UT Transport Department aims to set new benchmarks in driving standards and contribute significantly to reducing road accidents in the area.
