Automated testing to replace manual vehicle checks in Chandigarh; ATS at Raipur Kalan by August

Under the proposed system, trainees will complete a 29-hour course over four weeks (eight hours theory and 21 hours practical). A minimum attendance of 85% is mandatory. Upon successful completion and assessment, candidates will receive a proficiency certificate, treated as equivalent to the existing driving test conducted at the Children’s Traffic Park in Sector 23.

The UT transport department plans to establish a regional driving training centre at Raipur Kalan with MoRTH support, spread over four acres, intended as a hub for training driving instructors and improving road safety standards; expressions of interest have been invited.

Officials say the system will significantly reduce human error, corruption and manual manipulation associated with conventional testing methods; test results are expected to be objective and tamper-proof.

The ATS will assess key parameters such as brake efficiency, suspension, steering alignment and emission levels, enabling authorities to identify unfit or high-emission vehicles more effectively.

Chandigarh currently has around 30,000 registered commercial vehicles, all of which require periodic fitness certification. As per norms, transport vehicles must undergo fitness testing every two years up to eight years of age, and annually thereafter.

The Centre has already mandated fitness testing through ATS in a phased manner for commercial vehicles nationwide.

Currently, manual fitness inspections are conducted at a designated ground in Manimajra as part of existing procedures.

The UT administration is phasing out manual inspections and establishing an automated testing station (ATS) at Raipur Kalan. Officials say the facility is in an advanced development stage and is expected to be operational within the next three months, likely by August.