Sources from the Transport Department of Vietnam Road Directorate said that the Global Positioning System (GPS) devices installed on buses are not effective to control drivers.It’s mandatory for all passenger buses to install GPS devices since 2011 to monitor driver and timely identify violations with regard to the routes, speed and driving time.
On the other hand, the card will support administrative agencies in determining whether the drivers comply with transportation regulations or not. According to the revised Decree No. 86, before January 01, 2018, all drivers will have to bear cards in conformity with the National Technical Specifications on Vehicle Tracking.
Some experts said this regulation is necessary to tackle some shortcomings in the process of vehicle control.
However, according to general opinions driver card alone is not a magic tool to control drivers. It is the driver’s awareness that counts.
Driver Tran Tuan Chinh said: “In case the driver lends others his card, how can it be detected?”. The GPS device can only read the card information, so without CCTV during the trip, drivers can still find ways to get around the law.
Do Cong Thuy from the Transport Department said requirement of driver bearing card is aimed at maximizing the application of GPS device. Old devices in compliance with QCVN 31:2011/BGTVT standard will be upgraded to meet requirements stipulated in QCVN31:2014/BGTVT set of standards.
These new requirements have concerned enterprises due to additional expenses incurred by making cards and purchasing equipment which raises the question: “Will enterprises or drivers bear these expenses?”
Moreover, despite having regulation on installing and connecting the GPS devices to the GPS Tracking Center of Directorate for Roads of Vietnam, thousands of drivers still violate the traffic law monthly.
It worth noting that GPS device installed in passenger buses only provides information for authorities to collect information and report to local governments monthly. It is not effective in preventing driver’s missconduct as expected.
It is still debatable whether the management with support from cards will be fully implemented with efficiency, or would it become the same old story like GPS devices which have failed to prevent violations.
