Pune: Delay In High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP) Installation Leaves Citizens Frustrated | Representative Image
Punekars applying for High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP) are facing unexpected delays, causing frustration. Despite receiving a text message notification of a scheduled date to receive number plates from the Regional Transport Office (RTO), many applicants are being told to come back after a day or two, as their number plates are not ready on time.
Deepak Waghmare, a resident at Parvati, speaking to The Free Press Journal, said, “10 days ago, I got a text message that my HSRP number has arrived. However, when I reached the fitment centre at Tilak Road, I was told that the number plate had not arrived yet, and they asked me to come later.”
Raghuvendra Jagtap, a vehicle owner, said, “I had to take a leave for this particular work, but I was forced to return empty-handed. I reached the centre on the given date, but I was informed that my number plate would be available only after two more days. This has caused unnecessary hassle, leading to a loss of time and work.”
Shivani Kapre, another vehicle owner, asked, “Who is responsible for this mismanagement? If the RTO provides a date, why isn’t there a system in place to ensure timely availability of number plates? Who will compensate us for the time and money wasted?”
Meanwhile, Swapnil Shinde, Assistant RTO Pune, told this newspaper, “To tackle the issues, fitment centres will be increased soon. To increase the fitment centres, we have sent a proposal to the higher officials. Once it passes, fitment centres will be increased, and people could install the number plate at the nearest point from their residence.”
What is HSRP?
Vehicle owners across Maharashtra have been directed to install HSRP on vehicles registered before April 2019. Recently, the Maharashtra Transport Department has extended the deadline for installing HSRP from March 31 to April 30.
Made of a rare aluminium alloy, HSRP contains a retro-reflective film with a verification inscription ‘India’, a chromium-based Ashok Chakra hologram, the hot-stamped letter IND in blue and a 10-digit laser-branding of a unique serial number, making it tamper-proof.
What are the rates?
The rates for installation of HSRPs are ₹450 for two-wheelers and tractors, ₹500 for three-wheelers and ₹745 for four-wheelers (including cars, trucks, buses and other vehicles), excluding GST.
As per the rule, HSRPs are fitted on the front and rear sides of the vehicles along with a third registration mark sticker on the vehicle’s windscreen as prescribed in Rule 50 of the Motor Vehicles Act. For new vehicles registered as of April 1, 2019, HSRPs have already been made mandatory, and the responsibility for their fitment is on the manufacturers.
How to install HSRP?
As per the SOPs, vehicle owners will have to book an appointment for HSRP installation at least two days in advance, and the agencies are required to have the HSRP ready by that time. After installation, the agencies will have to update the details of the affixed plates, including the unique laser number (at least 10 digits), vehicle registration number, and photos, through the web-based application.
