Karwar: Karnataka Transport and Muzrai Minister Ramalinga Reddy on Friday warned of strict disciplinary action against Regional Transport Office (RTO) officials if middlemen are found operating within their offices.
Speaking after inaugurating an automated driving test track built at a cost of ₹6.55 crore in Dandeli, the minister said that most public services in RTO offices have already been brought under an online system, and any presence of intermediaries would invite action against the concerned RTO and Assistant RTO (ARTO) officials.
Reddy highlighted that the state has so far operationalised 20 automated driving test tracks, while construction at 25 additional locations is in the final stages. Once completed, Karnataka will have 45 such facilities across its 31 districts, positioning it as the state with the highest number of automated driving test tracks in the country.
Emphasising reforms in the transport sector, he said a geo-fencing system has been introduced to ensure that both in-state and out-of-state vehicles must physically report to designated RTO offices for fitness certification. Around half of the commercial vehicles in the state are already equipped with location tracking systems, with plans to cover the remaining fleet in the coming days.
The minister further noted that tenders have been floated to establish automated vehicle testing stations in all 31 districts. Work orders have already been issued for three tenders, while two others have been re-tendered. These facilities are expected to streamline and simplify all vehicle-related services.
Referring to recent sleeper bus accidents, Reddy said the Central government has introduced new regulations, under which private bus operators will be allowed to run sleeper services only if they comply with the prescribed safety norms by the end of this month.
He also announced that work on a new hi-tech bus stand in Dandeli will commence soon, and instructions have been issued to the managing director of the state transport corporation to introduce a premium “Pallakki” bus service between Dandeli and Bengaluru.
The minister lauded the efforts behind establishing the Assistant Regional Transport Office and the automated testing track in Dandeli, noting that the sensor-based system ensures a fully automated process without human intervention, thereby enhancing transparency and efficiency.
MLA R. V. Deshpande, who also spoke on the occasion, said Dandeli is attracting tourists from across India and abroad, and efforts are underway to develop the town with improved infrastructure while generating employment opportunities for local youth. He added that a modern bus terminal and better connectivity with Bengaluru have long been key demands of the region.
Senior officials from the transport department and local administration were present at the event.