Center introduces new ATS vehicle testing rules, fitness clearance now strictly automated Himachal Pradesh has launched its second Automated Testing Station in Mandi district to conduct computerized vehicle fitness checks. Under these new central rules, vehicles with even minor technical faults will fail clearance. Vehicle owners face strict new scrutiny as the central government rolls out automated fitness testing across the country. Under the updated regulatory framework, vehicle passing is shifting away from manual checks toward Automated Testing Stations, commonly known as ATS. Marking a major expansion of this initiative, the second ATS facility in Himachal Pradesh has officially commenced operations in Kangu, located within the Sundernagar subdivision of Mandi district. Voluntary slots and convenience for vehicle owners Providing details on the rollout, Mandi Regional Transport Officer Naveen Sharma explained that while the facility currently prioritizes vehicles registered within the Sundernagar subdivision, motorists from outside this jurisdiction who wish to use the center voluntarily are also being accommodated. This system eliminates the need for vehicle owners to make repeated visits to transport offices or motor vehicle inspection centers. Instead, motorists can book their testing slots online according to their personal convenience and complete the passing process smoothly. Detailed computer-driven inspection procedures An Automated Testing Station is a specialized facility where vehicle diagnostics and fitness evaluations are conducted entirely through computerized systems. The inspection begins at the outer perimeter of the center, where officials examine the vehicle against established parameters and advise owners to fix any visible external defects. Once cleared for the next stage, the vehicle is driven onto a computerized ramp where advanced scanners analyze the entire machine. This digital scanning evaluates both external body panels and internal mechanical components. If the automated diagnostic system uncovers any technical anomaly or mechanical fault, the vehicle is immediately denied fitness clearance. Strict adherence to central government parameters Naveen Sharma emphasized that the testing protocols strictly follow the parameters laid down by the central government. Unless the computer systems thoroughly evaluate every metric and issue a definitive green signal, the vehicle cannot pass the test. This advanced technological approach ensures an unprecedented level of precision and thoroughness in vehicle inspections, significantly reducing human error and oversight. Limited current availability with future expansion plans At present, this advanced central initiative is operational at only two locations across the entire state of Himachal Pradesh, with the first established in Kangra district and the second now functioning in Mandi district. Authorities noted that utilizing these automated centers is not yet compulsory for all vehicle owners, as citizens retain the option to complete manual vehicle inspections through traditional regional channels. However, the government intends to establish similar automated testing infrastructure across all regions in the near future, after which passing through this technology will become mandatory for all vehicles. What this means for you This new automated testing mandate will fundamentally change how vehicle fitness and safety clearances are conducted across the region. • Across India: The nationwide rollout of Automated Testing Stations will progressively phase out manual inspections, ensuring that poorly maintained or unsafe vehicles are systematically kept off public roads. Vehicle owners will face stricter deadlines and must ensure their automobiles meet technical benchmarks to avoid failing clearance. • In Mandi: Motorists within the Sundernagar subdivision and surrounding areas no longer need to endure lengthy administrative visits to regional transport offices. Vehicle owners can secure online appointments at the new Kangu facility, saving time and streamlining the mandatory fitness verification process. Why this happened The central government introduced automated testing mandates to eliminate human subjectivity and address rising safety concerns related to aging or poorly maintained vehicles on public roads. • Need for Standardization: Traditional manual inspections often suffered from inconsistencies and a lack of uniform evaluation standards, occasionally allowing mechanically compromised vehicles to pass. • Push for Digitization: To remove human discretion from the inspection workflow, the transport authorities prioritized computerized diagnostic infrastructure across designated testing hubs. • Long-term Safety Vision: Establishing widespread automated testing networks forms part of a broader regulatory strategy to enhance overall highway safety and enforce strict environmental and mechanical compliance. Questions & Answers 1. What does ATS stand for in vehicle testing? ATS stands for Automated Testing Station, a facility where vehicle fitness is evaluated using computerized diagnostic systems. 2. Where is Himachal Pradesh's second ATS located? The second ATS in Himachal Pradesh has been established in Kangu, within the Sundernagar subdivision of Mandi district. 3. Is testing at the ATS currently mandatory for all vehicles? No, testing at the ATS is currently optional, and vehicle owners can still choose manual inspection methods based on their convenience. 4. What happens if a technical defect is found during the computer scan? If the computerized diagnostic scan detects any internal or external technical flaw, the vehicle is denied fitness clearance. 5. Who provided details regarding this new testing facility in Mandi? Mandi Regional Transport Officer Naveen Sharma shared details regarding the operations and guidelines of the new testing center. https://trendkia.com/en/himachal-pradesh/center-introduces-new-ats-vehicle-testing-rules-fitness-clearance-now-strictly-automated-32084 TrendKia — Har trend, sabse pehle.