Mandatory HSRP
According to the TOI report, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has mandated that all vehicles to have a High Security Registration Plate (HSRP) that have been sold before April 2019. On Tuesday, the Ministry of Transport in Delhi started to fine the vehicles. No HSRP and color coded fuel labels. Violators should be fined Rs 10,000 under the amended Motor Vehicle Act, but the fine has been compounded to Rs 5,500.
What is HSRP?
The license plate is made of high security aluminum and is fixed to the vehicle using two non-reusable locks. The license plate comes with a hot-stamped chromium-based hologram of Ashoka Chakra on the upper left corner, which is blue in color with a resolution of 20mm x 20mm. In the lower left corner of the panel is a 10-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN) laser etched into the reflective sheet. Likewise, the HSRP also comes with a hot stamped film that is applied to registration numbers and letters embossed "India" at a 45 degree angle. Once the unique record is set, it is electronically linked to the vehicle.
Why is it mandatory and what are its benefits?
The main reason behind this authorization is that old number plates are easy to tamper and can be removed or changed easily. A stolen vehicle almost always ends up with a replaced license plate, which makes it difficult for authorities to locate it, but HSRPs come with a quick lock that is not removable and is difficult to replace. HSRPs are also useful because basic vehicle details, including engine number and chassis number, are stored in a central database. The data stored with the 10-digit PIN becomes crucial in identifying a stolen vehicle.
How much does HSRP cost?
The central government has not set the price of the HSRP, which means that the cost may vary in different states. On average, the HSRP costs around Rs 400 for a two-wheeler, and goes up to Rs 1,100 for a four-wheeler, depending on the class. Color-coded stickers can be fitted for Rs 100 for HSRP-equipped vehicles.
Where can HSRPs be purchased?
For vehicle owners in Uttar Pradesh and Delhi, bookmyhsrp.com is a dedicated portal for purchasing HSRP and color-coded fuel labels. The website has been authorized by the government to provide HSRP. Information such as vehicle registration number, chassis number and engine number will be needed to book an appointment. As for other states, not much has been announced about enforcement campaign like UP and Delhi government. The best way to purchase HSRP and the color-coded label is through RTOs. Another way to purchase HSRP is through authorized auto dealers, but it should be noted that many dealers are not yet authorized to carry out the procedure and the best way is to check your state's Department of Transportation online portal for this information.
