Following complaints of High Security Registration Plates (HSRPs) falling off vehicles during recent heavy rains and waterlogging, the Ahmedabad Regional Transport Office (RTO) has directed all authorised vehicle dealers to use non-removable and non-reusable snap locks while fitting number plates.
The RTO has instructed dealers to strictly follow HSRP installation norms and use only approved, high-quality fastening materials.
Poor Fittings Blamed for Missing Number Plates
According to Ahmedabad RTO officer Balmukund R. Suryavanshi, many vehicle owners reported missing or damaged number plates after driving through waterlogged roads over the past few days.
An RTO inquiry found that some dealers had used ordinary rivets and low-quality fastening materials instead of the mandatory snap-lock system, causing the number plates to come loose.
RTO Warns Dealers to Follow Motor Vehicle Rules
The RTO reminded dealers that Rule 50(V) of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules requires HSRPs to be fitted only with non-removable and non-reusable snap-lock fasteners.
Officials also received complaints that the reflective coating and printed characters on some HSRPs had faded due to heavy rain and heat, raising concerns over the quality of the plates.
The RTO said missing or damaged number plates make it difficult for police to identify vehicles involved in accidents, traffic violations or criminal activities and increase the risk of misuse.
Dealers Asked to Help Vehicle Owners
The RTO has also instructed authorised dealers to assist vehicle owners whose number plates have been lost or damaged by guiding them through the online application process for replacement HSRPs, including the required documents and applicable fees, to ensure a smooth and hassle-free process.