No Excuses: Maharashtra To Fine Vehicles Without HSRP Plates From ‘This’ Date, Enforcement Begins
After months of deadlines and low compliance, the transport department will start action against vehicles still running on old number plates.
Vehicle owners in Maharashtra who have not installed High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP) may soon face penalties, with the state transport department set to begin strict enforcement from February 18.
The deadline for fitting HSRP plates expired more than a month ago, and officials have indicated that there will be no further relaxation. “The deadline expired over a month ago, and no extension was announced. This indicates the state govt does not intend to offer further relaxations,” an official said.
HSRP plates are mandatory for vehicles registered before April 1, 2019. The mandate was first announced in December 2024, and since then, multiple deadlines were issued, with December 31, 2025 being the final cut-off.
However, compliance remains worryingly low, especially in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad. Reports suggest that out of 24,28,589 eligible vehicles, only 8,57,209 have been fitted with HSRPs, roughly 35 percent. Across Maharashtra, sources estimate that over one crore vehicles are still without the new plates.
Transport Commissioner said strict action will be taken against non-compliant vehicles after February 18. The administration has also granted a 15-day grace period for those who registered before the December 31 deadline but have not yet installed the plates. “Those who have registered on time, they need to get a chance, that’s why we have decided to wait until February 18,” he explained.
Officials also warned that inspections will not be limited to number plates alone. Vehicles stopped for checks may also be asked to produce registration certificates, insurance, PUC, and driving licences. “Documents such as registration certificates, insurance, PUC, and driving licences will also be verified, and penalties will increase if any are missing,” an official said.
Fitment centres have also reported operational challenges due to missed appointments. “We have many HSRPs ready for scheduled appointments, but vehicle owners do not show up… insisting on immediate fitment,” a centre executive said.
With enforcement now imminent, authorities are urging vehicle owners to complete the process quickly to avoid fines and stricter checks.
