The Tamil Nadu Transport and Road Safety Department has initiated the process to set up five Automated Testing Stations (ATS) in the state. These stations aim to enhance the issuance of fitness certificates for commercial vehicles. The proposed locations for the ATS include Attur, Madurai South, Tiruvallur, Thoothukudi, and Villupuram, operating under a public-private partnership model.
Following a directive from the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, it is now mandatory to issue fitness certificates for heavy vehicles solely through automated testing facilities since October 1, 2024. The move is intended to boost transparency, accuracy, and road safety by eliminating manual inspections.
Under the 15-year agreement, the selected private operator will be responsible for the construction, operation, and maintenance of these testing facilities. These stations will cater to heavy vehicles, light commercial vehicles, and two-wheelers registered under 18 Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) in Tamil Nadu.
The fee structure for the ATS operators has been revised, allowing them to charge Rs 650 for light motor vehicles and Rs 1,050 for heavy vehicles as testing fees for vehicles under 15 years old. Additionally, a certification fee of Rs 200 per vehicle will be applicable for both categories. The rates for vehicles older than 15 years are yet to be disclosed.
Each testing station will conduct fully automated tests covering various aspects like emissions, speedometer accuracy, braking efficiency, and more. The system will utilize digital sensors to measure technical parameters such as vehicle weight and axle load. The construction of these facilities is expected to be completed in about six months post the tender finalization, paving the way for a more scientific and dependable vehicle fitness certification system in Tamil Nadu.
