Why in the News?
Maharashtra’s transport department has now made HSRP number plate mandatory with a final deadline set for 15 August.
What is a High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP)?
- About: It is a standardised, tamper-proof vehicle number plate mandated for all vehicles in India.
- Launch: It was officially introduced in 2001 under Rule 50 of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR), 1989, and later made mandatory by the Supreme Court in 2012.
- Composition: The plate is made of aluminium and includes several embedded security features to prevent counterfeiting and enhance traceability.
- Key Features:
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- Each HSRP is fitted with a non-removable snap lock that prevents tampering or re-use.
- The plate contains a laser-etched 10-digit unique identification number, linking it to the vehicle’s registration details.
- A chromium-based hologram of the Ashoka Chakra is embedded to authenticate the plate and prevent duplication.
- A retro-reflective film improves night-time visibility and supports automated detection systems.
- A colour-coded third registration sticker is affixed to the vehicle’s windshield displaying key information like engine number, chassis number, and registration number.
- The plate is embedded with RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology, allowing authorities to digitally track the vehicle for enforcement and traffic management purposes.
Compliance and Enforcement in India:
- HSRPs are mandatory for all vehicles registered after April 1, 2019, as per Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) guidelines.
- Vehicles registered before April 1, 2019 must retrofitted with HSRPs by deadlines set by respective state governments.
- The Supreme Court and Ministry of Road Transport have directed states to enforce HSRP installation strictly to enhance road safety and curb vehicle-related crimes.
- In case of non-compliance, vehicle owners are liable for a fine of ₹1,000 under Rule 50 of CMVR and Section 177 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
- Transport departments across states, including Maharashtra, are conducting daily enforcement drives, issuing challans and directing retrofitting at authorised centres.
- Several states have authorised zone-wise vendors to streamline installation, and vehicle owners must pre-book appointments online for HSRP fitting.
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