Thane RTO Checks Auto Drivers' Marathi Proficiency

The Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Thane has begun checking the Marathi language proficiency of auto-rickshaw drivers in the city. The inspections, which started on Thursday, are being conducted at six locations across Thane.

The RTO flying squads are verifying the drivers' ability to communicate in Marathi and serving notices to those who fail to meet the requirements. The drive is part of a statewide campaign launched by the Maharashtra Transport Department to ensure that auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers have the prescribed level of Marathi language proficiency.

According to State Transport Department Minister Pratap Sarnaik, the month-long drive aims to take action against drivers who lack working knowledge of Marathi or do not have the mandated proficiency certificate. The RTO squads are videographing the verification tests and issuing initial notices to non-compliant drivers.

Drivers who fail to meet the language requirement will be given nearly a month to improve their Marathi proficiency. If they still fail to comply or show no improvement within the given time period, their licences will be suspended for three months. The Minister has clarified that the government does not intend to affect anyone's livelihood but wants to ensure that the Marathi language and the state's identity and culture are preserved.

The Transport Department has issued nearly 9.65 lakh auto-rickshaw and taxi licences and badges across the state. Going forward, RTO officials will verify applicants' practical knowledge of Marathi through direct conversations before issuing new licences and badges.

The drive has been launched to promote the use of Marathi language among auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers in the state. The Minister has stressed the importance of preserving the state's identity and culture, and the need for drivers to be able to communicate effectively with passengers in Marathi.

The RTO has announced that it will take strict action against drivers who fail to meet the language requirements. The drive is expected to continue for a month, and drivers are advised to improve their Marathi language skills to avoid any action.

The Maharashtra Transport Department's decision to launch the Marathi language proficiency drive has been welcomed by many, who see it as a step towards promoting the use of the state's official language. However, some have expressed concerns about the potential impact on drivers who are not proficient in Marathi.

Overall, the drive is expected to have a significant impact on the transport sector in Maharashtra, and is seen as a move towards promoting the use of Marathi language among auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers in the state.

The move is significant for Mumbai residents, as it aims to ensure that drivers are able to communicate effectively with passengers in the local language. It is also seen as a step towards preserving the state's identity and culture, and promoting the use of Marathi language in everyday life.