By Express News Service

CHENNAI: The State government has made it mandatory for drivers to carry their original licences from September 1. Addressing reporters at Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) headquarters, where a review meeting on road safety was held, Transport Minister MR Vijayabhaskar said drivers will need to carry their original licence from September 1.

He said there have been instances when drivers carry photocopies of licences, even though they might have been temporarily suspended or revoked. “This measure was taken after consultation with senior traffic police officials. It will help reduce accidents,” the minister said. Reiterating that the government will take required steps, the minister said road accidents during January- July this year had reduced. “It has fallen by 3244, compared to the same period last year.

Also, the number of deaths has reduced by 309,” he said. As many as 9500 driving licences have been suspended for alleged violations, such as over-speeding, signal jumping and drunk driving. Several steps are being enforced for road safety. Recently, traffic police decided to take helmet-less riders to the nearest police station for awareness classes on road safety. Authorities in MTC said steps are being taken to soon introduce electronic buses in the city. “It will initially be run on a trial basis on a single route. Upon getting passenger feedback, it will be expanded. The route and fare will soon be fixed,” an official said.