Maharashtra Mandates High Security Plates: March 31 Deadline Announced

The Maharashtra Transport Commissioner’s Office has issued a mandate for all vehicles registered before April 2019 to be fitted with High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) by March 31, 2025. With over two crore vehicles impacted, the government aims to curb vehicle thefts and standardize identification systems across the state.

Why High Security Plates?

The HSRPs are crafted from a rare aluminum alloy and include advanced features such as:

• A retro-reflective film with the verification inscription ‘India.’
• A chromium-based hologram of the Ashok Chakra.
• Laser-engraved, tamper-proof 10-digit unique serial numbers.
• Blue hot-stamped letters “IND.”

These plates are tamper-proof and include a third registration mark sticker on the windscreen, ensuring enhanced security and compliance with Rule 50 of the Motor Vehicles Act.

SOPs and Enforcement

The authorities released Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) specifying that vehicle owners must install the HSRP and the registration mark sticker by the deadline. Non-compliance will result in penalties under Section 177 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Enforcement powers have been granted to the Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) and the police.

Costs and Zones

The installation costs are:

• ₹450 for two-wheelers and tractors.
• ₹500 for three-wheelers.
• ₹745 for four-wheelers (excluding GST).

To manage the vast number of vehicles, the Transport Commissioner has appointed three agencies:

1. Rosmerta Safety Systems Ltd: Zone 1 (12 RTO offices).
2. Real Mazon India Ltd: Zone 2 (16 RTO offices).
3. FTA HSRP Solutions Pvt Ltd: Zone 3 (27 RTO offices).

These agencies will establish HSRP embossing and installation centers, supported by software applications for booking appointments, payments, and resolving grievances.

Implementation Challenges

Despite the government’s efforts, retired RTO officials have criticized the timeline as unrealistic.

“Installing HSRPs on over two crore vehicles in four months is impractical. It takes more than six months just to recalibrate e-meters for 5-7 lakh autos and taxis,” said a retired official.

What Vehicle Owners Need to Know

• Appointments for installation must be booked at least two days in advance.
• Agencies must have HSRPs ready at the time of installation.
• After installation, agencies will upload details such as the unique laser number, registration number, and photos onto a web-based system.

Background and Future Steps

Since April 1, 2019, HSRPs have been mandatory for all new vehicles, with manufacturers responsible for installation. However, vehicles registered between 2008 and 2019 (approximately 2.10 crore) will now need retrofitting.

In August 2023, the Maharashtra government finalized tenders to address this backlog, dividing the workload among the three appointed agencies. These agencies are now racing against the clock to ensure compliance before the March 31, 2025, deadline.

Key Takeaways

• HSRPs aim to enhance vehicle security and curb theft.
• The deadline is March 31, 2025.
• Penalties will be imposed for non-compliance.

For Maharashtra’s vehicle owners, timely action is essential to avoid fines and ensure compliance with the new mandate.