In a major step toward modernizing its transport infrastructure, Manipur is set to establish its first-ever Automated Vehicle Testing Centre at Teramakhong village in Imphal East district. The facility, officially known as an Inspection and Certification (I&C) Centre, will be developed under the Lamlai Assembly Constituency.
The centre will feature a two-lane setup designed to test both Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs) and Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs). Equipped with advanced automated systems, it will assess critical safety and environmental parameters such as brake efficiency, emission levels, headlight alignment, suspension performance, and chassis condition.
The ₹14.25 crore project is fully funded by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) under a tripartite agreement with the Government of Manipur and the International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT).
Officials say the initiative aims to reduce road accidents, improve air quality, and ensure fairness in vehicle certification by eliminating manual testing biases. It also aligns with national mandates requiring that all vehicle fitness assessments be conducted exclusively at automated stations, as per GSR 663(E) issued in September 2023.
Once operational, the centre is expected to generate employment for qualified technical and support staff and serve as a model for other northeastern states seeking to upgrade their road safety infrastructure.
