Measures to issue medical certificates at NTMI immediately: Minister

Transport Service and Management Minister Mahinda Amaraweera yesterday instructed the National Transport Medical Institute (NTMI) officials at Nugegoda to expedite the issuance of medical reports for those seeking driving licences and the new system is introduced a 'Fast Track System'.

Speaking to media after inspecting the premises yesterday, Minister Amaraweera said long queues were seen at the NTMI in Nugegoda and its branches in all districts in the morning. Therefore, the Minister instructed the NTMI officials to find out some remedial measures to implement the 'Fast Track System' immediately.

"In 2019, the government earned Rs.200 million by issuing medical certificates. This year the NTMI had earned Rs.712 million as revenue while incurring expenses Rs.411 million," he said. At least 800 people received at the NTMI to obtain the medical certificate and the minister advised the officials to take actions to provide a quality service while minimising the inconveniences caused to the general public. The Minister said the number of applicants is rapidly increasing and therefore the institute is facing several issues. Minister Amaraweera said the government will provide additional human and physical resources to provide a better service to the public. (Chaturanga Samarawickrama)