HSRP deadline extended till February 15

With lakhs of citizens yet to replace the old registration plates of their vehicles with High Security Registration Plates (HSRP), the state government has extended by a month the deadline to do so. The original deadline of January 15, which has been shifted to February 15, the state government said.

The state government said in a release that the decision to extend the deadline was taken following a review by chief minister Vijay Rupani.

“The decision has been taken so that people are not inconvenienced, and do not face any harassment. It is also to ensure that fly-by-night operators do not take advantage of such a situation,” the release said.

After the high-level review meeting, officials said that arrangements have been made at all RTO offices and the large network of authorised dealers to fit the High Security Registration Plates. “We are seeing large rush for getting HSRP. The deadline extension is keep vehicle owners’ interest in mind,” said an official.

According to officials, of the 70 lakh vehicles registered in Ahmedabad district, almost 45 lakh vehicles are yet to get HRSP. In Gujarat, the number of such vehicles would easily be several times more.

In view of complaints that many dealers are fleecing vehicle owners by charging exorbitant sums for fixing the HSRP, the government warned of strict action against such dealers, including cancellation of their dealerships. It also clarified that citizens would be required to pay service charge of Rs89 for registration plates for 2 & 3-wheelers, and Rs150 for four-wheelers and heavy vehicles.

“As per the order of the Supreme Court, it is mandatory to fit HSRP in every vehicle. The next hearing of the case is on January 22, and the state government will take steps as per the court’s directions. We request vehicle owners to comply with the law by getting HSRP fitted,” the release said quoting the state transport commissioner.