Folks, Valmiki Faleiro has provoked a fascinating discussion, in particular with regard to the driving test and overtaking.
I feel that the main problem with the driving test in Goa is the local practice of driving schools charging learners a flat fee with a guaranteed licence at the end of the course. The learners receive minimal instruction and the driving schools bribe the examiners to pass the candidates. With the low fees charged it is the only way they can survive. If driving schools were compelled to charge fees per lesson it would improve standards. The schools would have a vested interest in preparing candidates thoroughly and the incidence of bribery would decrease. I use a self-drive car during my annual visit to Goa and though I have a British Driving licence, I decided to apply for one in Goa in order to acquire yet another local identity document. The test was absolutely pathetic. In the oral part the examiner asked me what I should do before overtaking. I listed the checks I would make but he was not satisfied and kept on repeating the question. I listed a few more cautions but he was still not content. I finally gave up and asked him what else I should do. "Blow the horn, BLOW THE HORN," he screamed in my ear. I told him that I did not see the need to do so since I would only overtake when it was safe to do so and in any case I did not like adding to the noise pollution. The rest of the test was completed in a tense atmosphere and perhaps he did not take me through the full practical routine. I was not asked to perform a three point turn, hill start or reverse parking. I was surprised to pass the test. I too have had Gabriel's experience of indicating an intention of turning right and it being interpreted as a signal for a vehicle behind to overtake me. One tip regarding driving in Goa - with long drives and in rural areas wherever possible I drive behind another vehicle. This is particularly useful at night to avoid the glare of full headlights from oncoming traffic. One feature that does puzzle me is the total absence of traffic lights in Goa, even at busy road junctions. Unmarked road breakers are used sometimes and they are a hazard to those not familiar to their location. Traffic lights are common in other parts of India. Why not in Goa? Cheers, Eddie Fernandes London _____________________________________________ Do not post admin requests to the list. Goanet mailing list ([email protected]) Help/Unsubscribe/Update your Subscription: %(user_optionsurl)s This email sent to %(user_address)s
