Maharashtra State Transport Depart Calls for Bids for High-Security Registration Plates | Representative Image
The Maharashtra Transport Commissioner’s Office has announced that all vehicles registered before April 1, 2019, must be equipped with High-Security Registration Plates (HSRPs) by March 31, 2025. The directive, which applies to over two crore vehicles across the state, includes two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and four-wheelers.
According to a statement issued by the state transport commissioner on December 26, all vehicles purchased before April 1, 2019, need to have HSRPs installed before March 31, 2025.
The move aims to enhance vehicle identification, prevent theft, and improve national security. Non-compliance will attract penalties under Section 177 of the Motor Vehicles Act, as per the department’s guidelines.
HSRPs are specially designed plates made from a rare aluminum alloy, featuring a retro-reflective film with the “IND” mark and a chromium-based Ashok Chakra hologram for authenticity. The plates also include a 10-digit laser-engraved serial number and a third registration mark sticker for windscreens, ensuring better tracking and standardization.
The initiative follows orders from the Supreme Court emphasizing the importance of HSRPs for all vehicles. Vehicles registered after April 1, 2019, are already equipped with HSRPs by manufacturers and are exempt from this requirement.
“Vehicle owners (who purchased vehicles before April 1, 2019) must register for HSRP installation through the official Maharashtra Transport Department website (https://transport.maharashtra.gov.in),” said an official, adding that the state transport department has appointed three authorized vendors to handle the installations.
Plates installed by unauthorized vendors will not be registered in the Central Government’s database, the department clarified.
“Vehicle owners must comply with the directive to avoid penalties and ensure their vehicles are properly registered,” said an official from the department, adding that the state transport department has provided a helpline for complaints or queries regarding the process. Vehicle owners can reach out via the department’s portal or email at dytccomp.tpt-mh@gov.in.
The Maharashtra state transport department has urged vehicle owners to act promptly to comply with the mandate before the deadline. “This mandate underscores the growing focus on improving road safety and bolstering national security through advanced vehicle tracking systems,” said an official.