August 26th 2024.
The state government is taking significant steps towards promoting road safety by expanding the driving training centres, as announced by Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena. This was stated by the minister while addressing a special event held on Sunday to mark the first anniversary of the Institute of Driving Training and Research in Palur, Berhampur. Mr. Jena highlighted the department's commitment to reducing road accidents and emphasized the crucial role played by the SuVahak training programmes in ensuring safe driving practices.
During his speech, the minister extended his heartfelt congratulations to both the staff and trainees of the institute for their dedication and efforts in making it a success. He also encouraged the institute officials to increase the outreach of the programme to involve more drivers in the training process. Mr. Jena proudly stated that the efforts of the institute have already benefitted 5,000 new drivers and over 22,000 existing drivers who have completed the refresher course from four training centres located at Chhatia in Jajpur, Bonai in Sundargarh, Keonjhar, and Palur. He further added that the training programme has received an overwhelming response from both men and women, with several trainees securing jobs in prestigious companies across the country and even abroad. In fact, 30 skilled drivers have been selected for employment in Japan, which is a remarkable achievement.
The institute provides a comprehensive thirty-day training program to the trainee drivers, which includes free accommodation and food. Upon successful completion, the trainees are awarded a driving license and become eligible for a monthly stipend of Rs 3,000. The institute also takes care of the physical and mental well-being of the trainees by providing modern facilities such as daily yoga and exercise sessions, as well as a library for their overall development. Mr. Jena proudly mentioned that the Palur facility boasts 20 acres of land and is equipped with an administration block, air-conditioned classrooms, model rooms, and an AC canteen. The hostel has a capacity of accommodating 140 trainees at a time in its 14 dormitories. The institute has the capacity to train 1,200 heavy vehicle drivers and refresh 4,000 drivers annually.
The official spokesperson of the institute stated that the practical training is conducted on a two-kilometre-long driving track that is equipped with road signs to simulate real-life scenarios. The centre has successfully trained 823 heavy vehicle drivers so far, with 166 of them securing jobs in various government and private organizations. The cost of the training program is covered by the Transport department, while Ashok Leyland provides the necessary machinery and trainer facilities. The program also includes a three-day refresher course every month for licensed drivers to enhance their skills.
The event was graced by the presence of Additional Transport Commissioner Dipti Ranjan Patra, Joint Transport Commissioner Pradeep Kumar Mohanty, Bikas Chaudhary, Transport Department Officer Bhramar Mahapatra, Ganjam RTO, and officials from Ashok Leyland. The minister also planted a tree as a symbol of growth and progress. A cultural program was also organized to mark the occasion, making it a memorable first anniversary for the Institute of Driving Training and Research in Palur.
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