Neglect and missing amenities at Sector 32 centre create hardship for applicants
Residents and applicants visiting the automated driving test centre in Sector 32, Chandigarh Road, Ludhiana, say poor maintenance and a lack of basic facilities have made the site difficult to use for the past two years. Complaints include broken seating, overgrown grass producing foul smells, damaged or absent instructional signboards and inadequate drinking water.
The facility, operated by the government, sees a steady daily influx of candidates seeking driving tests. Several users described long waits without adequate seating and unhygienic surroundings near the centre. Concerns about security were also raised after thefts targeted wiring and surveillance cameras at the site.
- Seating: Applicants report no proper chairs or benches and stand for long periods.
- Sanitation: Overgrown grass behind the centre has caused a strong stench, according to visitors.
- Signage: Instructional boards guiding applicants through procedures are tilted, damaged or missing.
- Water: Drinking water facilities are inadequate.
- Security: Theft of wires and cameras was reported three days prior to coverage.
“The centre should have proper seating arrangements for people waiting for their driving tests,”
said one applicant, Rishi. Another applicant, Anurag, commented on the state of the signboards:
“The signboards should clearly explain the driving test procedure so that applicants know what they are required to do.”
Administration response and planned remedial works
Jaspreet Kaur, a clerk at the centre, said she had been on duty only for two days and that authorities had been informed about the theft of wires and cameras. She added that repairs were completed within two days.
Regional Transport Officer Mankanwal Singh Chahal confirmed that the matter was under consideration and that the state government had initiated the tendering process for driving test centres across Punjab. He told reporters that an estimate of ₹1.5 crore had been prepared for the Sector 32 facility and that work would proceed once the tendering process was completed.
| Issue | Reported condition | Planned action |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | Broken/missing benches, long standing times | Upgrade during ₹1.5 crore project |
| Sanitation | Overgrown grass, foul smell | Cleaning and landscaping under tendered works |
| Signage | Tilted/damaged/missing boards | Replacement and installation planned |
| Security | Theft of wires and cameras | Repairs completed; long-term security measures under review |
Local impact and expectations
For applicants — often students and working adults juggling jobs and paperwork — the centre’s condition adds time and stress to an already procedural process. In a city like Ludhiana, where vehicular licences are in steady demand owing to economic activity and commuting needs, a functional and hygienic testing facility is important not only for convenience but for road-safety administration.
At present, authorities are balancing immediate repairs, such as restoring cameras and wiring, with a broader refurbishment that will follow the state tendering process. The estimate of ₹1.5 crore is intended to cover the comprehensive upgrade, though the timeline depends on the completion of procurement formalities and contractor appointment.
Meanwhile, applicants and visitors expect interim measures — seating, drinking water provision and clear temporary signage — to be put in place so daily operations are not further disrupted. The Regional Transport Office’s assurance that the matter is being processed will be watched closely by residents who rely on the centre for obtaining driving licences and permits.
As Ludhiana’s transport and public works departments move forward with the tender, local users and civic groups may press for a clear deadline and periodic updates so the centre’s facilities match the city’s needs and safety standards.
