ASSAGAO: In today’s world, the surge in vehicular population on roads has brought with it an alarming increase in threats to human life. A stark contrast to times when bullock carts, walking, or cycling ensured safe travels, modern roadways witness a disregard for safety and road discipline. A surge in accidents underscores the lack of driving etiquette and safety consciousness among motorists. Even with driving schools, the question remains – are they instilling genuine traffic discipline in budding drivers?
Around four decades ago, Hubert D’Souza of Badem, Assagao, returned to Goa, forsaking prestigious positions in Saudi Arabia and Dubai while still in his prime. He had experienced the impeccable road systems of these foreign lands, where stringent traffic rules were enforced. This contrasted sharply with the chaos and lack of discipline he encountered on Goan roads, despite the limited number of vehicles.
Hubert’s observation prompted an innovative idea – a driving school that not only imparted driving skills but also instilled a much-needed sense of discipline. Challenges were plentiful, including bureaucratic hurdles and logistical issues like installing a second steering wheel. The outcome was the establishment of Mc Donald’s Motor Driving School, a pioneering initiative unheard of in North Goa at the time.
Hubert’s mission extended beyond driving proficiency; he aimed to revolutionise road behaviour. He viewed driving as a fusion of art and science, particularly physics. For him, driving was not just a mechanical activity but a responsibility to ensure the safety of all road users.
His teachings emphasized respect for human life on the road. His rigorous approach extended to learner’s licenses, where he scrutinized hand reflexes, leading to candid rejections and even refund collections. His dedication was evident through his decision to teach only one student per month, ensuring comprehensive instruction. “Some people only came to me to get their driver’s licence, and I refused them point blank. I sometimes would only take on one student a month, to focus all my attention on them. Lessons included theory of driving as well as practice at different times of the day and on different terrain- slopes, muddy roads,” he explains. “I more or less still remember my students since I only taught around 12 a year, and to the best of my knowledge not one of them has been involved in any accident till date, because that is how I taught them – you remain safe and keep others safe,” he quips.
Hubert’s influence spanned diverse backgrounds, including individuals from affluent circles. Notably, Dr. Tarcar, one of Hubert’s female students, introduced him to the then dean of GMC as the teacher who taught her the ‘anatomy of driving’. “I feel very proud when my students tell others that I am a very strict driving teacher,” he laughs. Over three decades, Hubert’s school flourished, though it has since scaled down due to his advancing age.
Drawing a comparison between past and present, Hubert laments the erosion of road discipline. He attributes this decline to the increasing number of vehicles and a waning respect for fellow road users. He fervently advocates the ‘Each One Save One’ philosophy, calling for collective commitment to road safety.
