Transport Department Tightens Rules, Mandates Photo-Proof Vehicle Examination

By Jony Shekhawat | Published Date : March 05, 2026

The commercial vehicles sector continues to evolve with stronger compliance systems, technological upgrades and growing demand across freight and passenger transport segments.

The transport department has now made its inspection process stricter after a big fitness certificate issue came into the open. Nisar Ahmed ( senior inspector from the Bangalore Central RTO) has been booked for allegedly issuing 10,210 fitness certificates to vehicles from other states without any physical inspection.

If proper physical checks are skipped, it can directly affect road safety and public trust. Without proper inspection, road safety can be compromised.

How the Irregularities Came Out

Table of Contents

1. How the Irregularities Came Out

2. New Rules for Vehicle Inspection

3. Mandatory 20% Physical Verification

4. Demand for Strict Action

Read More: Tata Motors Focuses on Reliability Through ‘Better Always’ Strategy

The issue surfaced after Gujarat transport authorities alerted Karnataka officials. Toll plaza data reportedly showed that some vehicles were present in Gujarat on the same days their fitness certificates were processed in Bengaluru.

Following the complaint, the transport commissioner ordered a probe on February 13. After reviewing the report, an FIR was registered under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The accused officer had already been suspended last month and retired on January 31 while under suspension.

Many of the vehicles involved included 4-wheelers registered outside Karnataka. This raised concerns about how digital systems were being misused.

New Rules for Vehicle Inspection

In response, the department issued strict new guidelines. Now, all vehicles must be inspected only at designated locations. Inspectors are required to take clear photographs of the vehicle during inspection. The image must show the licence plate along with date, time, and location details.

These photos must then be uploaded to the Vahan portal as proof. This step aims to stop fake approvals, whether it is a private car, pickups used for goods transport, or heavy trucks.

Mandatory 20% Physical Verification

To increase accountability, Regional Transport Officers must now physically inspect at least 20 percent of all vehicles presented for fitness certification. Extra attention will be given to vehicles registered in other states before issuing approval.

This applies across categories, including mini trucks operating in city areas and electric trucks that require periodic checks like any other commercial vehicle. Commissioner Yogesh said geo-fencing technology using mobile phones is already being deployed. This will ensure inspections happen only at approved locations and prevent system misuse.

Demand for Strict Action

The irregularities were first highlighted through a written complaint by S Nataraj Sharma, president of a private transport federation. He demanded examination of CCTV footage, inspection registers, Vahan entries and test records. With closer monitoring, photo proof during inspections, and random physical checks, officials believe the system will become more transparent. The aim is simple — every vehicle on the road should be properly checked and truly safe to run.

Also Read: Sales Report of Tata Commercial Vehicles in February 2026

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Frequently Asked Questions on Commercial Vehicles

Q1. What are commercial vehicles used for?

Ans. Commercial vehicles are mainly used for transporting goods and passengers. They support industries like logistics, construction, agriculture and public transport services.

Q2. What is the difference between light and heavy commercial vehicles?

Ans. Light commercial vehicles carry smaller loads and are suitable for city use, while heavy commercial vehicles are designed for long-distance freight and large cargo movement.

Q3. Are electric options available in commercial vehicles?

Ans. Yes, many manufacturers now offer electric commercial vehicles, especially in light and city transport segments, to reduce fuel costs and emissions.

Q4. Why is maintenance important for commercial vehicles?

Ans. Regular maintenance ensures safety, improves fuel efficiency, reduces breakdown risks and helps maintain vehicle fitness certification as per transport regulations.

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