Maharashtra: RTO’s Strict Action Against Vehicles with Fancy Number Plates
The Maharashtra Transport Commissioner’s Office has launched a statewide special drive against vehicles with fancy number plates and those without High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP). This campaign will run from February 18 to March 15, with all Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) instructed to take strict action.
Who Will Be Fined?
RTO officials confirmed that vehicles registered after April 1, 2019, must have HSRP installed. Failing to do so will result in a ₹1,000 fine under Section 190(1) of the Motor Vehicles Act.
For vehicles registered before April 1, 2019, the focus is on illegal fancy number plates. Plates featuring names like “Kaka,” “Mama,” or “Dada” violate Rule 50 of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989. Owners using such plates will also face a ₹1,000 penalty.
Legal Aspects and Controversy
A retired transport department official raised concerns about the fine’s legal basis. They argued that Section 177 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988—not Section 190(1)—should apply, as the latter deals with unsafe vehicles.
Despite this, the transport department has issued a clear warning: install HSRP by April 30, 2025, or face a ₹1,000 fine.
Also Read: HSRP Number Plate Deadline Extended in Maharashtra – Check the New Deadline
Why is HSRP Important?
HSRP plates offer high security and tamper protection. Made from a special aluminum alloy, they include:
- A retro-reflective film
- A hologram with the Ashok Chakra
- ‘IND’ hot stamping
- A unique 10-digit laser-engraved serial number
These features make HSRP plates difficult to duplicate or tamper with.
HSRP Cost and Application Process
The Maharashtra Transport Department has set the cost of HSRP plates between ₹531 and ₹879 (inclusive of GST and snap lock charges). The state has authorized three companies to install these plates.
According to official tender documents, over 2.10 crore vehicles were registered in Maharashtra between 2008 and 2019. This includes 1.62 crore two-wheelers and 33 lakh four-wheelers.
Conclusion
The purpose of this special drive is to strictly enforce traffic regulations and curb the use of fancy number plates and vehicles without HSRP. Vehicle owners are advised to install HSRP at the earliest to avoid penalties and ensure compliance with traffic rules.
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