Bhubaneswar: The govt on Thursday launched the state’s first automated testing station (ATS) in Cuttack, paving the way for advanced machinery to inspect vehicle fitness without human intervention.
The new system was implemented in accordance with the Central Motor Vehicle Rules to ensure transparent and accurate assessments of all categories including two-wheelers and three-wheelers as well as light, medium and heavy vehicles, both commercial and privately-owned.
“We plan to establish 21 more ATSs in different districts soon. Vehicle condition plays a crucial role in road safety, and regulatory standards determine whether a vehicle is fit to operate on roads. ATS ensures that there is no human intervention during fitness tests and the reports are factual,” state transport secretary Usha Padhee said.
In the new system, vehicles undergo a comprehensive 12-minute inspection process. The assessment involves moving vehicles through designated lanes where specialised equipment examines all components. Advanced cameras and sensors swiftly identify any potential defects. A motor vehicle inspector supervises the automated testing procedure, while the digital results are stored systematically in the database.
Previously, vehicle registration renewal and fitness certification relied on manual assessments, which led to concerns over potential manipulation. The introduction of the ATS is intended to ensure more reliable and transparent evaluation.
“Our objective is to allow only fit vehicles to ply on roads. Vehicles in poor conditions are vulnerable to cause accidents. ATS will play a crucial role in phasing out such unfit vehicles,” transport commissioner Amitabh Thakur said.
Under current regulations, commercial vehicles must undergo fitness test every two years for the first eight years and biennial tests thereafter. For cars, fitness test begins 15 years after registration, with five-year renewals thereafter.
“As registration of a vehicle is linked to fitness, a vehicle without valid fitness is essentially without valid registration. Driving a vehicle without a fitness certificate is an offence and attracts up to Rs 5,000 fine for first-time offence and Rs 10,000 or one year of imprisonment for subsequent offences,” another transport official said.