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| Sunday, 8 May 2005 |
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Indian model training centre for bus drivers by Chamitha Kuruppu The government is to set up an Indian model training centre for both public and private sector bus drivers and conductors, Transport Minister Felix Perera told the Sunday Observer. According to Minister Perera by setting up such an institution the Transport Ministry looks forward to provide a sound training both mentally and physically for bus drivers and conductors. "There is a need to educate these people - about their responsibilities - if we need to minimise the ever increasing number of road accidents," Minister Perera further said. Meanwhile, a decision has been taken, not to issue licence to drivers with critical illnesses. "This rule is not properly implemented at present. But I have informed relevant authorities to strictly enforce it with immediate effect," minister pointed out. In a move to safeguard commuters, a special insurance policy will be introduced in near future. Transport Minister said that he is further discussing with insurance companies about the matter. Both train and bus commuters will be covered under the proposed insurance. Measures will be taken to deduct 1 per cent from every third party insurance cover under a special program 'Road Safety', which will be implemented especially to safeguard pedestrians. Meanwhile, Private Bus Owners Association (PBOA) President, Wijeratne said he has proposed the government to abolish the existing route permit system. "As long as the government issue route permits to individuals we will not be able to minimise the number of road accidents," Wijeratne stressed. According to PBOA chief the association is currently discussing with the Department of Employees' Provident Fund to absorb private bus drivers and conductors into the Employees Provident Fund and the Employees Trust Fund. " There are over 45,000 drivers and conductors in the country and most of them does not have permanent jobs. We will absorb them into the cadre so they will be more responsible in future," Wijeratne added. |
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