Maharashtra sets March 31 deadline for high-security plates on pre-2019 vehicles
To implement these norms, the state government has appointed three agencies through a tendering process.
3 min read
Vehicle owners are required to book appointments for a high-security registration plate installation at least two days in advance. (Express file/Representative Photo)The Maharashtra Transport Commissioner’s Office has announced that all vehicles registered before April 2019 must have high-security registration plates (HSRPs) by March 31, 2025. Non-compliance will lead to penalties under Section 177 of the Motor Vehicles Act. This applies to over 2 crore vehicles across the state, including two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and four-wheelers.
HSRPs are designed to enhance vehicle identification and prevent theft. These plates are made from a rare aluminium alloy and have a retro-reflective film with India “IND” inscribed to confirm their authenticity. Each plate includes a chromium-based Ashok Chakra hologram, blue IND letters, and a 10-digit laser-branded serial number. Vehicles must also display a third registration mark sticker on their windscreens ensuring better tracking and standardisation.
To implement these norms, the state government has appointed three agencies through a tendering process. Rosmerta Safety Systems Ltd will manage Zone 1, which covers 12 regional transport offices (RTOs), while Real Mazon India Ltd will oversee Zone 2, including 16 RTOs. The third agency, FTA HSRP Solutions Pvt Ltd, is responsible for Zone 3, which includes 27 RTOs.
Appointment at least 2 days in advance
Vehicle owners are required to book appointments for HSRP installation at least two days in advance. The costs for installation are ₹450 for two-wheelers and tractors, ₹500 for three-wheelers, and ₹745 for four-wheelers, excluding GST. The agencies must ensure plates are ready for installation by the scheduled date.
Each agency is tasked with establishing embossing and installation centres in their respective zones. They will also develop software for appointment scheduling, payment processing, and grievance redressal. After installation, agencies must update details such as the unique laser number and vehicle registration on a web-based platform to maintain a centralised database.
There are concerns expressed about the capacity of the three appointed agencies to meet this demand within the stipulated time frame. Sources say that there are high chances that the deadline will be extended. However, penalties would only be imposed if the vehicle owners fail to upgrade their plates despite numerous warnings after the given deadline.
The state government began preparations in August 2023, inviting tenders to cover the 2.1 crore vehicles registered in Maharashtra before April 2019, which include 1.62 crore two-wheelers and 33 lakh four-wheelers.
Officials believe that enforcing HSRPs will significantly improve vehicle safety and traceability. With fines set to be imposed after the March 2025 deadline, the government aims to encourage compliance and streamline vehicle identification across Maharashtra.
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