An automated driving test system (ADTS) functions on electronic sensor-based technology to automatically evaluate driving skills of applicants on a pre-determined track. Designed in various shapes, the tracks test candidates’ ability to drive a vehicle without touching the sensor poles.
| Photo Credit: Sandeep Saxena

The government of Karnataka has given administrative approval for construction of an automated driving test system (ADTS) track under Puttur regional transport office in Dakshina Kannada district at an estimated cost of ₹7.88 crore.

The track would come up on 5.4 acres of land at Mundoor village, about 10 km from Puttur town. The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), Bengaluru, would get the ADTS track for two-wheelers and light motor vehicles constructed, according to a government order issued on February 21 by the Transport Department.

ADTS functions on electronic sensor-based technology to automatically evaluate driving skills of applicants on a pre-determined track to drive motor vehicles. Designed in various shapes, the tracks test candidates’ ability to drive a vehicle without touching the sensor poles.

Second in Dakshina Kannada district

Hailing the government decision, Puttur MLA Ashok Kumar Rai said the ADTS at Puttur would be the second in the district after the one at Mudipu near Mangaluru. The automated track would cater to driving licence applicants from Puttur, Belthangady, Sullia and Kadaba taluks, and Vittla hobli. The ADTS is expected to boost economic activity in the region, he said.

Mr. Rai said the 2024-25 State Budget had proposed to establish ADTS in Udupi, Chikkaballapura, Nelamangala, Madikeri, Madhugiri and Hunsur, and seizing yards at Devanahalli and Tumakuru.

Project shifted from Udupi to Puttur

The land identified for ADTS at Alevoor in Udupi was categorised as a deemed forest. The Transport Department could not get it released for non-forestry activities.

On realising that the earmarked funds might lapse, Mr. Rai approached the Transport Department with a proposal to establish the ADTS in Puttur, instead of Udupi. The MLA visited Mundoor village to identified land to establish the track.

Mr. Rai hopes that the work on the track would start immediately as the government has given administrative approval for the project.

The ADTS complex at Puttur would comprise test tracks for LMVs and two-wheelers, an administrative block, a toilet block, and a control room. Compound walls, water and power supply, landscaping and other such arrangements would be made in the complex.