Maharashtra Transport Department Announces HSRP Enforcement from February 18
The state transport department of Maharashtra has officially declared that the mandatory installation of High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) will be strictly enforced across the state starting February 18, 2026. This decision comes over a month after the final deadline of December 31, 2025, as confirmed by State Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar.
Delay in Enforcement to Accommodate Applicants
In an interview with the Indian Express, Bhimanwar explained the rationale behind the delayed enforcement. "We held back until now to allow vehicle owners who had applied for HSRPs before December 31 to get them installed. Now, from February 18, enforcement will begin against vehicles that haven't installed HSRP number plates." He provided a key clarification: "We would not fine those who would've booked for HSRP appointments after December 31." This means that individuals who scheduled appointments post-deadline will be exempt from penalties, offering some leniency during the transition period.
Penalty Structure and Comprehensive Vehicle Checks
Vinayak Sakhare, Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO) in Pune, detailed the current penalty for non-compliance. "The fine for non-compliance of HSRP number plates is currently Rs 1,000, though some states levy penalties up to Rs 10,000. We haven't implemented the higher penalty structure in the state so far. Citizens have been given ample time to apply for HSRPs, and now the enforcement will begin." Sakhare urged vehicle owners to proactively update their plates to avoid unnecessary expenses. "We would urge citizens to abide by the new rules and update the old number plates with HSRPs so that they don't waste their money and time on fines during the enforcement drive."
He emphasized that the checks will be thorough and not limited to HSRPs alone. Vehicles stopped for inspection will also be scrutinized for:
- Valid insurance certificates
- Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates
- Driving licenses
- Registration certificates
This comprehensive approach aims to ensure overall road safety and regulatory compliance.
Low Compliance Rates Despite Multiple Extensions
The HSRP mandate specifically applies to vehicles registered before April 1, 2019. Initially notified in December 2024, the response from vehicle owners has been sluggish, with many missing appointment dates and causing delays in fitment. In Pune alone, the compliance rate remains alarmingly low. Out of 24.28 lakh vehicles requiring HSRPs, only 8.57 lakh have complied so far, translating to approximately 35% adherence.
The transport department has already extended the deadline six times since the initial notification:
- From March 30 to April 30
- Then to June 30
- Followed by August 15
- Then November 30
- And finally to December 31, 2025
Despite these extensions, a majority of vehicle owners have yet to upgrade their plates. With enforcement now imminent, authorities anticipate that the imposition of fines and rigorous vehicle inspections will motivate non-compliant owners to act swiftly and avoid penalties.
