VASCO
Admitting that some RTO inspectors with an old mindset still indulge in physical verification of documents, Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho said he has warned them about these old processes and would convene a meeting every month to review how far the transport department has adapted to the new process of digitisation.
Speaking to reporters alongside the launch of development and beautification of open spaces in Dabolim, Godinho said Goa would soon be in tune with the country and all processes in the transport department would be digitised.
“With digitisation, driving licenses, learning licenses, permits and 14 other services have been digitised and there is absolutely no need for people to even visit the RTO office,” said Godinho.
PROBLEMS
The minister, however, said the issue lies in the mindset in the transport department.
"No matter how much change we bring about in the process and go into digitisation mode, change has to happen in the minds of people. Some RTO inspectors still have an old mindset and indulge in physical verification (of documents) because they are upset of losing all their powers with digitisation.”
“They are taking time to learn the new technology and adapt to the system and I have given them a month to learn the new process and procedures.”
“I am aware and have even received complains that some RTOs are calling people time and again for submission of medical certificate after applying for a license on an online platform,” said Godinho.
DIRECTIVES
“These lapses cannot be tolerated and I have given them a strict warning as well. It is time this thinking has to change. I have had a meeting with all officials and ADTs and informed them that they will have to change as the world is changing," said Godinho.
"Goa will be in tune with the country and this physical verification cannot go on for long.”
The minister said he would convene a review meeting every month to check on how far the transport department has adapted to the new digitised process.
CONCERNS
The minister was responding to concerns by Goa Automobile Dealers Association (GADA) President Prashant Joshi, who said the State government must implement the new Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR) and stop the RTO physical approval based system for registration of new vehicles, to enable ease of business and comfort to customers.
“The CMVR rule clearly says there is no need for physical inspection or approval for registration,” said Joshi.
“The new rules have been accepted all over the country and the practice is followed by many states, except Goa. The transport director had assured to implement this but this has not been done as yet,” he added.
