Maruti Suzuki automated driving test tracks inaugurated by Uttarakhand CM
In a major step towards enhancing road safety and ensuring skilled driving across Uttarakhand, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated automated driving test tracks (ADTTs) in Haridwar and Rishikesh. These facilities have been developed by Maruti Suzuki India Limited under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.The newly launched ADTTs are equipped with high-definition cameras and fully integrated IT systems, enabling a 100% computerised and transparent evaluation process for driving license seekers. Designed to eliminate human intervention, the tests are conducted in strict adherence to the Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR), ensuring a fair and efficient assessment of driving skills.advertisementThe new ADTTs will cater to testing for Light Motor Vehicles (LMV) and two-wheelers. With this, Uttarakhand now has three automated tracks in total, including one in Dehradun, operational since 2019. The Dehradun ADTT had previously won recognition from the Chief Minister for excellence and good governance in 2019–2020.
Speaking on the occasion, Brijesh Kumar Sant (IAS), Secretary, Transport Department, Government of Uttarakhand, said, 'We are committed to making the roads of Uttarakhand safer, and Maruti Suzuki's ADTTs are a key enabler. Our collaboration with Maruti Suzuki dates back to 2009 with the establishment of the Institute of Driving and Traffic Research (IDTR) in Dehradun. Through these automated test tracks, we can ensure that only truly competent drivers are granted licenses.'The Secretary also highlighted the state's partnership with Maruti Suzuki in conducting refresher training for commercial drivers ahead of the annual Char Dham Yatra—a mandatory program that helps drivers navigate challenging hill routes and qualify for the Green Card necessary for yatra operation.advertisementRahul Bharti, Senior Executive Officer, Corporate Affairs, Maruti Suzuki India Limited, thanked the Uttarakhand Government for its continued support. 'Under the visionary leadership of CM Pushkar Singh Dhami, Uttarakhand is rapidly developing. Skilled drivers are critical to boosting tourism and ensuring road safety. Our ADTTs will help achieve these goals by ensuring that licenses are issued only to capable and well-prepared drivers,' he said.He added that the company plans to train approximately 11,000 commercial drivers in refresher courses this year through its IDTR facilities.Due to the strict evaluation criteria of the automated systems, an initial dip in pass rates is often observed. For instance, the pass percentage at the Dehradun ADTT dropped to 60% in FY 2019–20 but has since improved to 69%, indicating that applicants are becoming better prepared over time.Subscribe to Auto Today Magazine
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