PANAJI
The Directorate of Transport is contemplating stepping up enforcement against vehicles without High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) by detaining them for a minimum of 15 days. The enforcement officials will soon receive directives to intercept and seize non-compliant vehicles including two-wheelers.
A senior official confirmed that the vehicles would only be released after owners pay penalties as per the Central Motor Vehicles Rules.
Moreover, during the detention period, the responsibility for the safety of the vehicle would rest with the owner.
“Many vehicle owners have continued to take a casual approach despite warnings and awareness drives. Hence, we are contemplating imposing harsh punishment on violators. Strict action is necessary to ensure compliance,” the official said.
On February 1, Transport Director Pravimal Abhishek issued a public notice asking owners to get HSRP fitted at the earliest with the flexibility to approach any registered dealer. He also conceded that field inspections revealed several vehicles still did not have HSRP installed.
“To facilitate this process, the department has authorized vehicle dealers to undertake the affixation of HSRP. Orders for HSRP can be placed through the official portal of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers at www.siam.in. Failure to comply with this directive shall attract strict action, including penalties as prescribed under the applicable provisions of law,” the notice stated.
The move, sources said, would also help traffic and transport officials on ground duty detect violating vehicles. “The AI high-definition cameras automatically capture clear video and images with Automatic Number Plate recognition of over-speeding vehicles in up to 200 meters during the day time and up to 100 meters at night time using Infrared technology on High Security Number Plate. This is another reason why HSRP is needed,” he explained.
As per available data, nearly 40 per cent of vehicles are yet to install HSRP as the rule has been in effect for over five years as part of a nationwide initiative to curb vehicle theft and standardize registration plates.
Sources further revealed that with the previous contractor’s tenure ending about a year ago, the department decided to allow vehicle owners to approach any registered car dealer for compliance.
