43 automated driving test tracks to be functional by end of year: Ramalinga Reddy

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, February 13, 2025: Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy on Wednesday, February 12, said the department will open 43 automated driving test tracks in the State by the end of this year.

Interacting with reporters during his visit to the office of the Deputy Commissioner for Transport and Senior Regional Transport Officer here, Mr. Reddy said Karnataka was the first State to pen automated test tracks in such a large number in the country. 

While work on setting up the tracks were in final stages in eight districts, they were under progress in the remaining places. Upon commissioning, the system would ensure hassle-free testing and issuing of driving licences, the Minister said.

At the same time, the department was in the process of establishing automated fitness testing centres at 11 locations. The centres would facilitate issue of fitness certificates, renewal of registration certificates etc., without human intervention, the Minister said.

Regarding the delay in the issue of smart card registration certificates and DLs, Mr. Reddy said the delay was due to one of the service providers, who was unable to participate in the tendering process, approaching the court. With the court dismissing the petition, smart card issue has been resolved.

Mr. Reddy said there was shortage of inspectors of motor vehicles to open newly sanctioned regional transport officers. While about 80 inspectors were already recruited, the process to recruit another 75 was on.

With regard to recruitment of crew for State road transport corporations, Mr. Reddy said recruitment process to hire about 9,000 personnel was underway. Once it was complete, about 1,300 personnel who were working in other than their home districts and have health/ family issues, would be transferred to their home districts.

Deputy Commissioner of Transport Shridhar Mallad and others were present.