Pune: Vehicle owners in Pune can look forward to receiving driving licences and RC books of better quality starting from July, according to the Regional Transport Office (RTO). The RTO has announced that it will implement improved printing techniques to ensure that smartcards used for licences and vehicle registrations maintain their freshness and readability for a longer duration.
An RTO official stated, “The transport department had been procuring these cards from two companies, but their contract has now ended. We have entered into an agreement with a new company, and they will commence the printing of licence and registration smart cards from next month.” The official further added, “The new cards will be of superior quality, and the printing will be embossed, enhancing their durability. Additionally, the daily printing capacity for licences and RC books will be increased, leading to a significant reduction in waiting time.”
Currently, some regional transport offices are utilizing the available cards for printing, while others, including Pune, are experiencing shortages. The Pune RTO currently dispatches approximately 5,000 RC books and 3,000 driving licences per day. “Although the pending cases are not extensive, they are increasing. Currently, there is a backlog of around 5,000 RC books and 30,000 driving licences,” revealed another RTO official. However, an official from the Pimpri Chinchwad RTO mentioned that they do not have any pending cases.
Driving licences are valid for 20 years or until the applicant reaches the age of 50. However, many licence holders have expressed dissatisfaction with the card quality. Jayesh Dixit, a resident of Kothrud, stated, “The printing quality has deteriorated, and one has to carefully store these documents in enclosed envelopes to ensure their longevity and prevent fading.”
With the implementation of improved printing techniques and the use of high-quality cards, the RTO aims to address these concerns and provide vehicle owners in Pune with driving licences and RC books that meet higher standards of durability and readability. The changes are expected to benefit applicants by reducing waiting times and ensuring the longevity of their important documents.
