UP Transport Minister Voices Concerns Over New Vehicle Fitness Certificate Norms
In a significant development, Uttar Pradesh Transport Minister Daya Shankar Singh publicly acknowledged on Wednesday that the recently implemented norms for issuing fitness certificates to vehicles are not suitable for the state's current infrastructure. These norms, mandated by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and effective from 2025, have faced criticism for creating operational hurdles.
Minister Writes to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari Seeking Intervention
The transport minister revealed that he has formally written a letter to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, urging the central government to permit the implementation of the older fitness testing system in districts where the new Automated Testing Stations (ATS) are not yet functional. This request aims to alleviate the difficulties faced by vehicle owners and operators across Uttar Pradesh.
Legislative Council Discussion Highlights Practical Challenges
During a session in the Legislative Council, Minister Daya Shankar Singh responded to a question raised by MLC Devendra Pratap Singh. He explained that, following orders issued by the union ministry on December 26, all manual testing for vehicle fitness has ceased in the state in the absence of ATS facilities. Consequently, vehicles are now required to travel to the nearest ATS located in a neighbouring district or even a different state to obtain their fitness certificates.
A specific case was highlighted involving the testing facility in Mahoba, which has been shut down. This closure has forced various vehicles, including essential services like school buses and ambulances, to undertake long journeys to Jhansi solely for fitness certification. The situation is further complicated as police continue to issue challans to vehicles operating without valid fitness certificates, despite the logistical challenges in obtaining them.
Inadequate ATS Infrastructure in Uttar Pradesh
Minister Singh pointed out a critical infrastructure gap, noting that Uttar Pradesh currently has only 18 Automated Testing Stations operational. This limited number is insufficient to cater to the vast number of vehicles across the state's numerous districts. The state government has brought this issue to the attention of the union minister, formally requesting that the older manual testing system be allowed to continue until new ATS facilities are established and become fully functional.
Leader of the House Keshav Prasad Maurya provided assurance during the discussion, stating that the matter would be actively pursued until a satisfactory resolution is achieved. This commitment underscores the urgency and importance of addressing the fitness certificate challenges to ensure smooth transportation and compliance across Uttar Pradesh.
