LAHORE: Multan Regional Police Officer (RPO) Sohail Chaudhry says that three more state-of-the-art driving schools have been established in the district to bolster road safety and empower citizens.

He said that these schools, the only modern driving institutions of their kind in south Punjab, are setting new standards in drivers’ education and safety.

Earlier, there was only one driving school in Multan Police Lines, but now three more have beenestablished -- at RPO office, in DHA Multan near Bosan Road and at Qila Kuhna Qasim Bagh -- to facilitate people.

The RPO office driving school is the first in south Punjab to offer driving simulators.

“The introduction of driving simulators marks a significant leap in driver training,” says the RPO.

“It ensures that the trainees get a simulated driving experience in a controlled and safe environment,” he adds.

The driving schools adhere strictly to the international driving laws, ensuring that the training is of the highest standard. “Our curriculum is designed to go beyond theoretical knowledge,” explains RPO Chaudhry.

“We place a stronger emphasis on practical training, allowing our students to gain hands-on experience that is crucial for safe driving.”

The students are also trained in understanding and rectifying minor vehicle defects, an essential skill that enhances their overall driving competence. The schools operate from 8am to 8pm, offering flexible training hours to accommodate the students’ busy schedules.

Since their inception, the driving schools have trained over 1,350 students in just eight months, with women making a majority of learners, as female instructors are also available to train them, fostering a comfortable learning environment and supporting the Punjab government’s vision of empowering women.

In line with this vision, the schools also offer scooty riding lessons for women.

“We are committed to ensuring that women feel confident and safe on the road,” says the RPO. “Our female instructors play a crucial role in this mission.”

Driving schools are also working in other districts of the region, including Khanewal, Lodhran, Vehari, Shujabad and Jalalpur Pir Wala, making quality driver education accessible to a large number of people.

The RPO urged people to refrain from driving without proper training and a valid licence. “Driving without necessary skills and documentation poses a significant risk to yourself and others,” warns the RPO.

“We encourage everyone to learn driving, obtain their licence, and demonstrate responsible citizenship.”

Published in Dawn, February 12th, 2025