Nagpur: With the March 31, 2025, deadline for mandatory installation of High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) fast approaching, Maharashtra is facing criticism over steep charges for these number plates. Nagpur-based NGO Janmanch has raised serious concerns about the significantly higher rates compared to neighboring states and called for immediate reductions.
According to Janmanch, Maharashtra charges Rs 450 for HSRPs for two-wheelers, while Goa offers the same for just Rs 155. Gujarat, Punjab, and Andhra Pradesh have also kept their rates lower at Rs 160, Rs 200, and Rs 245, respectively. The price discrepancies are even steeper for four-wheelers, where Maharashtra charges Rs 745 per vehicle, compared to Goa’s Rs 203 and Gujarat, Punjab, and Andhra Pradesh’s rates between Rs 460 and Rs 649.
Janmanch President Rajeev Jagtap expressed his concerns, stating, “While a 5-10% price hike is acceptable, Maharashtra’s rates are up to 300% higher than in other states, which is unacceptable.” The NGO has stated that they got to know these information through media itself and also questioned the tender process for determining the rates, pointing out that the Rs 600 crore tender could escalate to Rs 1,500 crore due to the volume of vehicles needing HSRPs.
Authorities Respond:
Addressing the issue, Kiran Bidkar, RTO, Nagpur City, stated that the rates were decided at the state level after extensive checks. “We cannot comment further on the pricing,” he said.
To encourage public compliance, Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar has directed all Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) to increase awareness and hold meetings with transport organizations. RTOs have also been instructed to submit participation reports to the commissioner’s office.
HSRPs: Security and Compliance
HSRPs, made from a rare aluminum alloy, feature a retro-reflective film, a chromium-based Ashok Chakra hologram, and a 10-digit unique serial number, making them tamper-proof. Authorities claim that these plates are essential for vehicle security and theft prevention.
Mandatory Compliance by March 31:
All vehicles manufactured before April 1, 2019, must install HSRPs by March 31, 2025. Vehicle owners are encouraged to register online to ensure timely compliance.
As public criticism mounts, Janmanch’s demand for price reduction has placed additional pressure on the Maharashtra Government to address concerns and ensure smoother implementation of the high-security number plate directive.
