Ministry suspends driving training and tests amid Covid-19

THE Ministr y of Public Works and Transport announced a 15-day temporar y suspension of tra ining at driv ing schools and exams for driver’s licence at testing centres across the countr y to prevent the spread of Covid-19 in the community. The suspension is from December 1-15.

Heang Sotheayuth, director of the ministry’s Department of Information Technology and Public Relations, told The Post on December 3 that in the suspension period, the ministry will take action against any driving school that violates the suspension order.

He pointed out that this action does not involve arrest or punishment, but only a recommendation for closure. However, if a driving school ignores the closure order, the ministry will refer the case to court for further action.

Sotheayuth did not reveal the number of driving schools across the country as he did not have the data in hand, but said there are 26 driver’s licence exam centres nationwide.

Dai Thom II Driving School owner Kien Sophoan said that after receiving a notice from the ministry, her school was temporarily closed to comply with the government’s measures in preventing the transmission of Covid-19 within the community.

Sophoan said that since the first case of community transmission was reported, the school has not enrolled many students as most people are afraid of being infected with the virus. She said almost all branches of her school have seen student enrolment decreased by 70 to 80 per cent.

“Registered students are less likely to attend classes and fewer new students are enrolling with us. During the Covid-19 pandemic, schools introduced sanitary measures and social distancing to prevent the virus transmission. This is in line with the call of the head of the government,” she said.

Norng Leakena, owner of Mittapheap Driving School, said she had received the notice from the ministry.

“The school has temporary closed all branches and also apologised to students and trainers, as now it is a difficult time for everyone,” she said.

On November 30, Prime Minister Hun Sen instructed relevant ministries, institutions, and municipal and provincial halls to temporarily close schools and public gatherings to prevent the spread of Covid-19.