2 years on, automated driving test track awaits AI-based tech

The state government has failed to introduce HAMS (Harnessing Automobile for Safety) technology at the Mohali Regional Transport Authority (RTA) driving test track. Two years ago, plans were made to rope in a private player in Mohali as a pilot project and then extend it to all 32 test centres across the state. The HAMS technology, an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based automated driver licence testing system, was to enhance transparency and efficiency at driving test tracks. Already operational in Uttarakhand, the HAMS technology includes iris scanning, ensuring that no impersonation occurs during the test and effectively assesses the driving skills of applicants.

Two years after the pilot project was planned for Mohali, the situation is such that Punjab Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar had to conduct surprise checks at Rupnagar, Phagwara and Jalandhar test centres to inspect the functioning of officials. He stated that only genuine applicants must appear for driving tests and strict measures should be taken to prevent impersonation. Bhullar emphasised that there should be no delay in delivery of services, as it could lead to corruption.

Inspecting the driving test track in Ropar, he directed RTO Gurvinder Singh Johal that “if any employee engages in corruption or shows negligence towards public work, immediate action should be taken against them.”

RTAs across the state are riddled with corruption, pendency and portal glitches. Visitors to the Mohali RTA said it took months to get a work done, be it the printing of driving licence, getting an NOC, or transferring registration.