Thiruvananthapuram: Automated H-track gets manipulated

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a bid to manipulate the automated driving licence test for light motor vehicles, changes were made in the automated H-track at Muttathara here on Thursday. The motor vehicles department has lodged a complaint with the local police as the automated track even malfunctioned because of the manipulation bid. The involvement of some driving schools in the manipulations is suspected. Markings with bricks were found on the white border lines of the H-track on Thursday morning.

The markings were made in such a manner that those taking driving tests could take turns by spotting the marks though the side mirrors. Since the markings were on the white line, the sensors failed to work properly. Hence the tests had to be stopped for about an hour until the markings were cleared using fresh paint. The boomerang effect was that though candidates took the test properly without crossing the lines, the automated system showed the result as failed.

“The signals from the sensors are directed toward the white lines. The test results are determined by checking if there are any obstructions in the signals from falling on the white line. Hence the markings on the white line affected the tests,” said Keltron network engineer Mr. Anoop S who is in charge of the automated track.  Regional transport officer Mr. Murali Krishnan said that a complaint with the police was lodged.

“Unless we take strong action in the initial stages itself, such instances may recur,” he warned. Meanwhile, the number of candidates appearing for driving licence tests increased over these days because the Motor Vehicles Department's introduction of  stringent test procedures, including gradient and reverse parking test mandatory will kick in from March 6. On Thursday about 50 persons took the H-test, of which about 30 passed.