No Number Plate, No Fear: Surge in Bikes Without Plates Sparks Security Fears in Pune
No Number Plate, No Fear: Surge in Bikes Without Plates Sparks Security Fears in Pune
Pune: In a troubling trend that raises serious security concerns, more and more bikes are being seen on Pune’s roads without number plates, as revealed in a viral video posted by an alert citizen. The phenomenon is adding to the city’s growing list of traffic violations and pointing to significant lapses in enforcement.
Rising Traffic Violations in Pune Expose Major Safety Gaps
Pune’s roads have long struggled with issues like signal jumping and helmetless riding. However, the sight of vehicles being driven without any registration plates is becoming increasingly common. Experts and citizens alike warn that this poses a major threat, especially considering the challenges in tracking such vehicles.
A social media user highlighted, “Riding without a number plate is a serious offence, as number plates are crucial for identifying vehicles.” This sentiment reflects the broader frustration among Pune residents about the deteriorating traffic discipline.
Another 2 vehicles spotted today without regn plate (neither front nor rear). @PuneCityTraffic @CPPuneCity how's this allowed to happen so openly? Hw many traffic junctions these ppl must've crossed?
— Nachiket Deshpande (@nachiket1982) April 25, 2025
Pl crackdown. These vehicles may potentially be involved in terror activities. pic.twitter.com/BihgF3bygA
Viral Video Shows Young Rider Without Number Plate
Nachiket Deshpande, a vigilant Punekar known for reporting traffic violations on X (formerly Twitter), recently shared a video of a young man riding a modified bike with no number plate — and no helmet. Tagging the Pune Police, he wrote, “There are thousands of such unidentifiable vehicles gracing Pune roads. What if such vehicles are used in terror activities?”
The video quickly gained attention, sparking a wave of comments from concerned citizens. Many expressed fear over the possibility of such vehicles being used in crimes like chain snatching, hit-and-runs, or even terror activities.
Public Voices Growing Alarm Over Lack of Enforcement
Reacting to Deshpande’s video, several users pointed out that the problem is widespread, especially in areas like Kondhwa. One user questioned, “Why do people remove number plates? What is the intention behind it?” Others emphasized the need for a smarter and more active police force to curb the menace.
A user even suggested a solution: “The government should create an app where citizens can report violations with photos, videos, and location, and get 20% of the fine as a reward.”
Vehicles Without Number Plates: A Threat to Public Safety
Deshpande stressed that he encounters such violations almost daily — even spotting high-end cars like Jaguars without number plates. In light of recent security threats, he warned that vehicles without proper identification could easily be used for illegal activities, making them a serious concern for law enforcement.
He added, “Considering the recent terror attacks, it’s worrying that vehicles with no plates or fancy, unreadable ones, can’t be tracked by surveillance cameras.”
Glaring Gaps in Traffic Enforcement Questioned
Despite the government’s push for High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) to improve vehicle tracking, the free movement of bikes without plates shows alarming gaps in traffic management.
Many citizens feel that while responsible drivers are penalized for minor lapses like missing helmets or expired licenses, violators with no number plates continue to escape unnoticed.
The surge in vehicles operating without registration plates is a wake-up call for Pune’s traffic authorities to intensify surveillance, enforcement, and public participation in tackling road safety challenges.
