Mumbai taxi drivers face long queues, delays for mandatory Marathi test certificates

Taxi drivers wait in long queues at the Mumbai Central RTO for mandatory Marathi language training and tests. Pics/Ashish Raje

Taxi drivers appearing for mandatory Marathi language training and tests at the Mumbai Central RTO are complaining of long queues and delays in obtaining completion certificates, claiming the process is costing them several days of work.

One of the drivers told mid-day, "We were made to wait for hours, with many returning without completing the process due to daily quota restrictions."

Drivers are urging the RTO to streamline the system and increase capacity so they do not have to repeatedly take time off the road.

Better system

Drivers said the intention behind ensuring basic Marathi proficiency may be understandable, but the implementation should not result in prolonged queues and loss of livelihood. They have sought a more efficient token system, additional counters and a time-bound process for training, testing and issuing certificates.

RTO response

RTO officials said the testing and issuance of certificates follow a set process that they have expedited. "Every candidate is scrutinised, and only then are the relevant certificates issued," an official told mid-day.

Driver Speak

Anil Kumar Pal a taxi driver
"The process for Marathi training and getting the completion certificate is frustrating. I was in the queue five days ago, but when my turn came around 11 pm, they said the daily quota was over and told me to return on August 12. Today, the line is for drivers who received tokens on July 26. Standing in line for six to seven hours only to be sent home is exhausting. Around 2000 drivers are waiting; there needs to be a proper system. I am fed up with losing work days just standing in line."

Baleshwar Rai another taxi driver, Madhubani, Bihar
"I've been driving a taxi in Mumbai for the past six to seven years. I know about 70 to 80 per cent Marathi. Since the transport minister has made it compulsory for drivers to learn the language, I came to collect the admission form for the training. The last date is August 15, but I still haven't been able to get a form despite keeping my taxi off the road for several days."

[popcorn number="August 15" desc="The deadline to complete mandatory Marathi language training" class="Default"]