Pune: Vehicle owners in Pune are facing severe difficulties while trying to register online for the installation of High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP). Frequent technical glitches, non-functional installation centers, and a lack of staff have turned this mandatory process into a major hassle. Many pre-registered vehicle owners have reported struggles due to unexpected center closures, leading to growing frustration among citizens.
According to government regulations, vehicles registered before April 1, 2019, must be fitted with high-security number plates. However, the number of successful installations remains low due to persistent technical issues and operational inefficiencies. While the Regional Transport Office (RTO) has expanded the number of installation centers, reports indicate that staff shortages and employee exploitation have led many workers to quit after just a few days on the job.
Recurring Issues Reported by Vehicle Owners
Many vehicle owners have raised concerns about difficulties in the online registration process. Despite repeated attempts, several users reported technical failures preventing them from booking an appointment. Even helpline services have been unresponsive.
Moreover, concerns have been raised about the high costs of installation in Maharashtra compared to other states. Vehicle owners claim that private contractors, authorized by the government, are charging excessive fees, making the service unaffordable for many. Complaints have also surfaced about additional GST charges being imposed, further inflating costs.
Several citizens are now demanding that the RTO introduce an offline registration facility to provide an alternative solution to the existing online system, which has been riddled with issues.
"The government has fixed specific charges for the plates, but the actual rates charged by installation centers are different. Compared to other states, these rates are already high. Additionally, GST charges have been imposed. The government should waive GST on this service."
— Sachin Zhambare, Sinhagad Road
"The high-security registration plate system is a massive corruption scheme. Every state has different rates, the online process is full of difficulties, fake websites are scamming people, and many installation centers remain closed. This issue needs immediate resolution."
— Rajesh Belhekar, Maharshinagar, Pune