RTO fails in using hand-held terminals after 14 months

Even after getting two hand-held terminals about 14 months ago, the regional transport office (RTO) has failed to make use of the gadgets. 

The terminals enable one to access quickly, the smart card driving licence containing an embedded chip that stores the cardholder’s fingerprint, digital signature and personal information. In case of violations, the RTO staff can take action on the spot. 

In November 2009, the RTO provided the two gadgets, imported from France, to the local staff access the smart cards of the vehicle owners/drivers in Pimpri-Chinchwad area. “The gadgets
are gathering dust till date,’’ admitted sources in the RTO. 

According to a senior official, who did not want to be named, the non implementation of the device has happened because field trials are going on for more than a year. 

“There are some teething problems pertaining to the use of the gadgets and the software. We are trying to overcome the problem before they are used in other cities by March end,’’ some officials said. 

According to some officials, the equipment is not suitable for Indian climate, which is why the field trials have been on for a long time. 

Deputy commissioner of police (traffic) Manoj Patil said the government has not given its nod to start the use of the gadget. “But we are hopeful that it will be in use soon,’’ he said. 

RTO sources said National Informatics Centre (NIC) is working on the software so that the proper use of the gadgets can be made. 

“Unless the NIC gives a clearance, we cannot start using the terminals,’’ an official said. 

The state transport department has handed over 40 such gadgets to different RTOs in the state. 

Official sources said the terminals will be used in Mumbai, Pune and Nashik by March end.