Telangana to set up 37 automated vehicle testing stations under full government control
HYDERABAD: The Telangana government plans to establish 37 Automated Testing Stations (ATS) across district headquarters to modernise vehicle testing and improve transparency, Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar told the Legislative Council. Replying to a question from MLC Naveen Kumar, he said the project is in its final stage. Administrative approvals were issued through GO No. 28 by the Transport, Roads & Buildings Department on September 30, 2024. The minister clarified that the government will fully operate all ATS centres, ruling out private sector involvement.
Phased Rollout Based on Land Availability
The ATS facilities will be implemented in two phases. The government will set up 15 centres in the first phase and 22 in the second, depending on land availability in districts. This initiative aims to streamline vehicle fitness testing using automated systems, reduce manual intervention, and improve accountability.
Green Tax Collections and EV Incentives
Prabhakar stated that the government collected ₹68.11 crore as green tax on old vehicles during 2024–25 and ₹71.14 crore in 2025–26. While the department utilises these funds, the government also promotes environmental protection by offering 100% tax exemption on electric vehicles.
Vehicle Scrappage Policy Progress
The minister confirmed that the vehicle scrappage policy is progressing steadily. Currently, three registered vehicle scrapping facilities operate in the state. To encourage scrapping old vehicles, the government offers liability waivers and tax concessions.
Automatic Driving Tests for Transparency
Prabhakar announced that automatic driving testing systems will soon replace manual processes. This change will ensure transparency in issuing driving licences and reduce irregularities in the testing process.
Digital Integration with Sarathi and Vahan
Highlighting digital reforms, the minister noted that Telangana has joined the Sarathi portal for driving licence services and will integrate with the Vahan portal from March 23. Although 29 states had already adopted these platforms, Telangana lagged for nearly a decade. The current government prioritised and completed the integration soon after assuming office.
Over 50 Reforms in Transport Department
The minister said the transport department has introduced more than 50 reforms. Vehicle registration processes now operate at automobile showrooms, simplifying services and reducing inconvenience for citizens.
Focus on Road Safety and Driver Training
To enhance road safety, the government conducts awareness programmes and enforces strict safety measures. Additionally, drivers recruited into the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation undergo six months of training through the Police Recruitment Board before induction.
Parking Infrastructure and Operational Overhaul
The government is also considering developing parking facilities at city entry points, subject to land availability. Furthermore, the department introduced a new identity, including a revised logo, and streamlined operations to improve public service delivery.
