Computerized vehicle inspections and technical investigation are to begin in Ethiopia next week. It is expected that the new form of inspections will enhance transport service and prevent deaths and material damage caused by vehicular accidents.

The new system will better inspect the technical performance of a vehicle and its assorted parts according to Kasahun Hailemariam, Director-General of the Ethiopian Transport Authority.

The new system will also eliminate the subjective and inconsistent manual inspection system that was previously in place and associated corrupt practices explained Kasahun.

Testing will also encompass exhaust emission as well as the authenticity of the chassis and the overall condition of the car body.

The standards are being modeled on those established by other countries such as Indonesia and Kenya and customized to fit the realities in Ethiopia according to officials at the authority.

Nineteen inspection sites are expected to commence operation this fiscal year with twelve becoming operational next week in Addis Ababa and three other locations in Amhara Regional State according to Kasahun.

Some technicians express concern that the standards are set too high for many cars in Ethiopia. A particular cause for concern is the test for emissions which may incur high maintenance costs on some vehicles.

The Ethiopian Transport Authority claims that the new standards are based on random inspections it carried out.

Source: Ethiopian News Agency