Maharashtra Vehicle Owners Urged to Switch to High-Security Registration Plates by April 30
In a bid to enhance vehicle security and streamline identification, the Maharashtra government has mandated that all 2.1 crore vehicles in the state must transition to High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP) by April 30, 2025. The move, aimed at curbing theft and improving tracking, has seen mixed responses from vehicle owners, with many facing challenges in securing appointments for installation.
In Pune alone, the Regional Transport Office (RTO) has received over 2.16 lakh HSRP orders so far. Out of these, 79,483 vehicle owners have booked appointments, and 40,924 plates have been successfully fitted. However, the limited number of installation centers has led to delays and frustration among residents.
To tackle the issue, the Pune RTO has increased the number of installation centers from 69 to 124. An RTO official stated, “We are finalizing vendors and will further expand the number of centers to 500 to ensure a smoother process for vehicle owners.”
HSRPs are designed with advanced security features, including a tamper-resistant aluminum body, a retro-reflective film for better night visibility, a chromium-based Ashoka Chakra hologram, and a unique 10-digit laser-etched serial number. These features make the plates nearly impossible to duplicate, significantly reducing the risk of vehicle theft.
Despite the benefits, many vehicle owners have expressed difficulties in booking appointments. The RTO has assured that the expansion of installation centers will alleviate these issues. Authorities are urging residents to complete the transition before the deadline to avoid penalties.
Vehicle owners are advised to check the official RTO website for updates on appointment availability and installation centers. With the April 30 deadline fast approaching, officials are emphasizing the importance of acting swiftly to avoid a last-minute rush.
