Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Oct 21: About 66% of vehicles in Mumbai and 60% across Maharashtra have been fitted with high-security registration plates (HSRP). Among Mumbai’s four Regional Transport Offices (RTOs), Andheri in the western suburbs leads with 82.73% of older vehicles upgraded, while in the state, Pune RTO is ahead in implementing HSRP.

Andheri, Vashi at the Forefront

In Mumbai, the Andheri RTO tops in HSRP installation for older vehicles. In Navi Mumbai, Vashi RTO has successfully fitted HSRPs on 91% of vehicles in its jurisdiction.

Action starts soon

The final deadline for HSRP installation is November 30. From December 1, traffic police units will take action against vehicles without HSRPs. Owners of non-compliant vehicles will face suspension of services such as vehicle re-registration, modification, and license renewal.

Challenges in achieving 100% compliance

Senior transport officials acknowledge that about 20% of older vehicles are either scrap or abandoned, often lying in dust-laden lots. Many vehicles are privately dismantled, without government records, making it difficult to achieve full HSRP coverage.

Practical difficulties

Vehicle owners still face delays in receiving HSRPs despite appointments. Sometimes, plates ordered from other cities arrive late, causing a gap of two to three days after the scheduled appointment. Sundays being off further complicates scheduling. As a result, even those who arrive on time at the center may not receive the plates immediately, causing frustration among vehicle owners.