Making issuance of driving licence corruption-free

One cannot drive on the road without a driving licence. So, procuring the licence is a prerequisite for any driver. According to my own personal experiences, this is, however, a painstaking process. Getting a driving licence is tough in Bangladesh not because of any technical or physical ability required to pass the driving test, but because of the illegal demand for bribes by the officials concerned. The process of licensing starts after paying the fees and the hurdles that come in your way are learning of traffic signs, visual ability, driving and parking skills. But one cannot pass this test, regardless of one's abilities, if one does not bribe the officials.

I think I am a skilled driver but I failed to obtain the driving licence after my third attempt because I did not give bribe to the officials, whereas unskilled drivers are buying driving licences. We have shortage of skilled drivers but unskilled and untrained drivers are driving throughout the country. If this is so, then how come our roads will be safe from accidents? The authorities concerned should take a hard line and make this process corruption-free.

Abu Elias Linkon,

Banasree, Dhaka,

[email protected]