Mumbai, India – The National Road Safety Council has declared that high-security registration plates (HSRP) are now mandatory for all vehicles in Maharashtra. The directive emphasizes the need for HSRPs to replace regular license plates, especially for vehicles registered after April 1, 2019, to enhance security measures and curb criminal activities.
Importance of HSRP:
Counterfeit number plates pose a significant challenge for law enforcement, enabling criminals to avoid detection easily. The transition to HSRPs aims to mitigate this risk by introducing distinctive features that set them apart from regular plates. While standard plates may attempt to mimic HSRPs, they lack unique attributes like laser codes, regularly updated on the Vahan portal of the transportation department.
Other security and safety features, including high visibility in low light due to retro-reflectivity, further distinguish HSRPs from ordinary plates.
HSRP Features:
- Hot-stamped hologram based on chromium
- Distinctive Ashok Chakra as a unique mark
- Uniformity in pattern and font
- Security note
- PIN with laser encoding for easy scanning by authorities
- Irreplaceable and non-reusable snap-on locks
Installation:
HSRPs can only be installed at selected vehicle vendors and dealers with authorization from state government authorities. The selection of dealers will be determined through a bidding process, with tenders posted in August of the previous year. State transportation commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar indicates that implementation is expected to commence this year.
The move towards mandatory HSRPs aligns with the ongoing efforts to bolster road safety measures and enhance vehicle identification protocols in Maharashtra. Vehicle owners, particularly those with registrations after April 1, 2019, are urged to ensure compliance with the directive to avoid potential penalties.
