Sudden shutdown at Mohali driving test centre leaves public fuming

Indian Express

26-04-2025

A day after a vigilance raid, Mohali's Sector 82 driving test centre remained unexpectedly shut on Friday, causing widespread confusion and frustration among the public. Without any prior notice, the centre was barricaded and guarded by a lone security personnel who cited 'server down' as the reason for the closure. However, insiders suggest that this abrupt shutdown may have been a strategic move to evade further action from the Vigilance Bureau.
Sources reveal that just days ago, a person was caught red-handed at the same centre while accepting a bribe of Rs 5,000 to help someone pass a driving test. The Vigilance Department is reportedly also preparing to take action against officials in the licensing office, including the Regional Transport Officer (RTO).
As the gates remained locked, a large crowd gathered outside, most of them unaware of the closure. Many had taken time off from work or travelled long distances to either appear for a scheduled driving test or renew their licenses.
Here's what some of the affected individuals told The Indian Express:
Abhishek Tiwari, who came from Zirakpur, said, 'I was given today's date for my test. I took a day off from work, only to find the centre shut. This is just harassment.'
Yatinderpal Rattan, 72, a retired manager, said, 'This is my sixth round here, but my license is still not printed. Maybe I should have applied in Uttarakhand or UP instead.'
Arun Kumar from Baltana said, 'I came for my license renewal. There was no prior notice at all.'
Shalu from Dera Bassi said, 'They sent me to Dera Bassi for my photo, and when I returned, the centre was closed.'
Navdeep Singh from Zirakpur said, 'This is my fourth visit here. Every time, there's a new excuse.'
Navpreet Singh, a resident of Kurali, said, 'It's been three months now. Without a licence, I am not getting a job.'
Officials speak
When contacted, a senior administrative official from Mohali (who wished to remain anonymous) confirmed that the centre had been shut since 1.30 pm on Friday but refused to provide further comments. Multiple attempts to reach State Transport Commissioner Jaspreet Singh were unsuccessful.
On the other hand, Mohali MLA Kulwant Singh told The Indian Express that he was not aware of the issue but assured that citizens should not face inconvenience. He promised immediate action and arrangements to resume normal operations as soon as possible.