Mumbai Awarded Rs 166.69 Crore Contract for Ten Automated Driving Test Tracks
Maharashtra is poised for a significant leap in road safety and driver assessment, with a leading smart mobility firm securing a substantial ₹166.69 crore contract to establish ten Automated Driving Testing Tracks (ADTTs) across the state. This transformative initiative aims to revolutionise driver licensing through unbiased, tech-driven evaluations, fostering a new era of competent drivers and contributing to safer, more sustainable urban environments.
The comprehensive five-year agreement encompasses the design, construction, operation, and eventual transfer of these high-tech facilities in key locations including Sindhudurg, Sangli, Akluj, Osmanabad, Jalna, Hingoli, Yavatmal, Wardha, Bhandara, and Gadchiroli. Each site will feature fully automated test setups, leveraging advanced video-based analytics to provide real-time, objective assessments of driving skills. Crucially, the system incorporates facial recognition for applicant verification, effectively eliminating manual intervention and enhancing the integrity of the testing process. At the core of this innovation lies a proprietary system integrating Artificial Intelligence-powered decision-making tools and sophisticated real-time video analysis. This technology meticulously evaluates candidates’ driving behaviour, ensuring precision and consistency in assessment. The upcoming tracks in Maharashtra will feature advanced elements such as customisable evaluation parameters, realistic night-driving simulations, and complex manoeuvres like reverse S-turns and slope tracking, all designed to mirror challenging real-life road conditions.
This strategic investment aligns seamlessly with the Government of India’s overarching ‘Surakshit Safar’ programme, which champions enhanced road safety. By promoting transparent, tech-led driver evaluations, the expansion of automated testing facilities is set to cultivate a more robust and reliable licensing system. This systematic approach is anticipated to lead to a tangible reduction in road incidents and a significant increase in the number of proficient drivers navigating India’s roads, thereby fostering a more secure and efficient transport ecosystem. The proven efficacy of this model is evidenced by over 1.6 million tests successfully conducted at existing facilities, including twelve government-authorised tracks already operational in Delhi. This extensive track record underscores the maturity and reliability of the technology. The widespread implementation of such unbiased testing mechanisms is vital for creating gender-neutral and equitable cities, ensuring that all citizens receive a fair and consistent evaluation, irrespective of background.
Ultimately, this project represents a forward-looking commitment to modernising critical public services. By embracing digital solutions for driver assessment, Maharashtra is not only enhancing road safety but also contributing to the broader vision of zero net carbon, eco-friendly, and sustainable cities. The emphasis on efficiency, fairness, and technological advancement will undoubtedly pave the way for a more responsible and safer driving culture across the state.
