India, April 2 -- Transporters across Maharashtra are facing a major operational crisis as vehicle fitness certification has been halted in 11 districts since March 4 due to the unavailability of Automated Testing Station (ATS) machines.

The disruption has left thousands of vehicles idle, causing financial losses and stress for transporters, particularly those involved in essential services such as goods transport, gas supply, ambulances and school buses.

With no interim arrangement in place, transporters are travelling to other districts for fitness certification, increasing costs and logistical challenges. Despite repeated representations to authorities, including Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, no extension has been granted to continue...