Fitness certificates force 100–150 km journeys:Services halted in over 25 districts; drivers complain old system ended before alternative arrangements

Vehicle owners in Madhya Pradesh have been facing serious difficulties for over a month after fitness testing and issuance of fitness certificates were suspended at district-level RTO offices. As a result, vehicle fitness certificates are now being issued only in major cities and divisional headquarters such as Bhopal and Gwalior. This has forced vehicle owners from smaller districts to travel hundreds of kilometres—sometimes 100 to 150 kilometres or more—just to complete mandatory fitness formalities. Dainik Bhaskar spoke to vehicle owners to understand their problems. Read the report… More than 27 districts affected According to officials, fitness testing and certification have stopped in over 27 districts. Neither vehicle inspections nor issuance of fitness certificates are being conducted at local RTO offices. The work has been shifted entirely to divisional-level centres, increasing both time and financial burden on vehicle owners. For example: Similar problems are being reported from Vindhya, Malwa, Nimar, and Mahakaushal regions. Government plans automatic fitness testing stations The disruption stems from a policy shift by the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to centralize vehicle fitness testing at the divisional level. The government plans to introduce Automatic Fitness Testing Stations (AFTS) operated by private agencies. However, the existing district-level system was shut down before the new automated system became operational, leading to widespread confusion and inconvenience. Transporters and drivers raise concerns Transport operators warn that the situation could worsen if no immediate solution is introduced. Auto driver Mohammad Anees said, Now we have to go to Bhopal or Gwalior. If we go, our vehicle stays idle. We lose daily income of ₹500 and spend extra on travel. Kamal Singh Parihar, another vehicle owner, said enforcement drives could increase problems.
“If our vehicle is caught without fitness, we face a ₹5,000 fine. Taking the vehicle outside the district itself is risky.” Naresh, a resident of Guna, highlighted unemployment concerns, saying people cannot afford to spend ₹50,000–60,000 just to comply with regulations. What are the rules for fitness certificates? Private vehicles (cars, bikes): Commercial vehicles: Why fitness certificates are important Distance to nearest fitness centres Some examples of distances vehicle owners must now travel: Officials respond Guna ARTO Gyanendra Vaishya said, Fitness certificates are currently being issued outside districts. Vehicle owners can choose any centre. A new system will be implemented soon.