New drivers in Telangana will soon be required to complete an online safety course before they can obtain a learners' driving licence. initiative, spearheaded by the state's transport department,aims to enhance road safety and driver awareness through a structured educational program .
The Telangana Online Safety Course,currently in its pilot phase at the Kukatpally RTO, consists of six modules, each followed by a quiz. Topics include proper vehicle control,defensive driving techniques, and responsibilities of drivers under Motor Vehicles (Driving) Regulations,2017. The course is designed to be completed in approximately two-and-a-half hours, significantly shorter than similar programs in other regions,which can last between five and seven hours.
Transport Commissioner K. Ilambarithi emphasized the importance of the course, stating, "The course is mandatory. It comprises instructional and educational videos." So far, 1,159 individuals have registered,with 973 already completing the training. course utilizes around 120 videos sourced from CCTV and dashcam footage to illustrate both good and poor driving practices,ensuring that the content remains educational without being graphic .
One notable feature of the course is its focus on the correct steering wheel position. Drivers are instructed to hold the wheel at the ‘9-3’ or ‘8-4’ positions, which is considered safer in vehicles equipped with airbags. This adjustment can significantly lower risk of injury during accidents when airbags deploy.
Participants will access course for free, and it can be completed on any device equipped with camera . UNICEF has funded approximately 60% of the course content,while website is developed and maintained by TG Online. Facial recognition technology plays crucial role in the course's integrity. Users must keep their cameras on throughout training. If the system detects that a face is not visible, the course will automatically pause, requiring the user to reposition themselves.
Periodic facial recognition checks are integrated into the video lessons to ensure that applicants remain engaged. Users can take breaks and resume course at their convenience,making it accessible and flexible.
Feedback from early participants has been positive,with many expressing hope that course will foster better adherence to traffic regulations due to increased awareness. The transport department plans to officially launch the course statewide within a month, with Minister for Transport Ponnam Prabhakar set to preside over the event . The course will be available in multiple languages, including Telugu, English, Hindi, and Urdu.
