In a move aimed at enhancing vehicle security and the ease of tracking stolen or lost vehicles, India’s Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has enacted a new amendment to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. Effective from May 2, 2019, issuing of certificate of registration (RC) for all classes of motor vehicles in the country will be halted unless the High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) are integrated with the ‘Vahan’ database.
Central Motor Vehicles Rules Amendment
This change mandates that all vehicles sold on or after April 1, 2019 come pre-fitted with the High Security Registration Plates (HSRP). The mandate reflects the government’s commitment to establishing robust protective measures against vehicle theft, which presents an increasing risk in today’s advancing technological landscape.
Characteristics of High Security Registration Plates
The HSRP is an aluminum plate with reflective tapes, designed to be tamper-proof and equipped with a chromium-based, self-destructive hologram, which is hot stamped onto the plate. Furthermore, the plate contains a sticker detailing necessary information such as the vehicle’s engine number and chassis number. The plate also features laser-branding of a 10-digit permanent identification number.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Material | Aluminium |
| Security Feature | Reflective tapes and chromium-based hologram |
| Additional Features | Vital vehicle details and laser-branded 10-digit permanent identification number |
Benefits of Mandating High Security Registration Plates
The HSRP initiative holds several advantages. Chief among them is the creation of a centralized record of bikes and cars, inclusive of details about the car and engine as well as the chassis number, stored in the national database. This centralized system will greatly streamline the process of identifying any vehicles, thereby contributing significantly to theft prevention initiatives.
Conclusion
This new mandate marks a significant step forward in vehicle security measures, offering a streamlined approach to tracking and identifying vehicles. It underscores the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways’ commitment to reducing vehicle theft and providing a safer environment for vehicle owners throughout the country. Despite the change representing a big adjustment for vehicle manufacturers and owners alike, the long-term benefits in terms of improved vehicle security certainly justify the effort.