Automated Vehicle Testing: Telangana to Introduce Automated Vehicle Fitness Testing Stations

Automated Vehicle Testing: Telangana is preparing for a major change in the way vehicle fitness tests are conducted across the state. The Transport Department plans to move away from the existing manual inspection system and introduce Automated Testing Stations for vehicle fitness checks.

The first phase is expected to include 15 Automated Testing Stations across Telangana. According to Transport Department sources, the tender process for setting up these facilities is nearly complete.

The proposed centres will initially be organised into two clusters under the jurisdiction of Deputy Transport Commissioner and Regional Transport Officer offices. The government is also considering expanding the network to 37 locations across the state at a later stage.

Under the new system, vehicles will be placed on specialised equipment fitted with sensors. Instead of relying mainly on visual inspection, machines will examine several important aspects of a vehicle’s condition.

Braking performance will be tested to determine whether the system is functioning properly. The equipment will also check engine performance and measure pollution emissions to see whether they fall within the prescribed limits.

Other technical requirements specified by the government will also be assessed during the process. The system is expected to provide a more detailed picture of whether a vehicle is fit to operate safely on public roads.

The proposed stations will cover different categories of vehicles. Heavy and medium vehicles such as trucks and buses will undergo testing, while cars, jeeps and other light motor vehicles will also be included.

The move is aimed at bringing greater consistency to vehicle inspections. At present, fitness checks are carried out manually under the supervision of Motor Vehicle Inspectors. The existing process has faced allegations that some vehicles may receive certificates without undergoing a thorough technical examination.

The proposed automated approach is intended to reduce such concerns by allowing machines to record test results based on measurable parameters. This could also make the process easier to monitor and review.

Another major change will be the digital recording of test results. Fitness reports generated at the Automated Testing Stations will be uploaded directly to the central Vahan portal operated under the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

Digital records will allow authorities to access a vehicle’s fitness information more easily in the future. It could also help create a clearer history of inspections and make it easier to identify vehicles that do not meet the required standards.

The system is expected to improve transparency in the certification process as the results will be generated through automated equipment rather than depending only on a manual assessment.

The shift could be particularly important for commercial vehicles, which spend considerable time on public roads. Regular checks on braking systems, engine condition and emissions can help identify vehicles that may pose safety or environmental concerns.

For private vehicle owners, the introduction of automated testing is expected to bring a more structured inspection process. However, details such as the exact locations of the first 15 stations, operational dates and other implementation guidelines are expected to be announced by the Transport Department.

Once the first phase becomes operational, the government plans to assess the system before expanding it further. The proposed 37 location network would give vehicle owners across more parts of Telangana access to automated fitness testing facilities.

The initiative marks a shift toward technology based monitoring of vehicle safety in the state. By combining sensor based inspections with digital records, the Transport Department hopes to make fitness certification more transparent, consistent and reliable.