Ahmedabad RTO Directs Dealers to Use Prescribed Snap-Lock System for HSRP Plates

Ahmedabad: The Ahmedabad Regional Transport Office (RTO) has directed automobile dealers to ensure that High-Security Registration Plates (HSRPs) are installed strictly in accordance with government norms and prescribed quality standards after receiving complaints that number plates were falling off during heavy rain and waterlogging.

The move comes days after reports highlighted the issue following widespread rainfall in the city. According to RTO officials, the Transport Department has instructed dealers to follow the prescribed installation procedure to ensure HSRP plates remain secure and durable.

As per Rule 50(V) of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, HSRPs must be fitted using the designated snap-lock system. However, the RTO found that some dealers were allegedly using ordinary rivets instead of snap locks, raising concerns over the strength and security of the number plates.

With Ahmedabad witnessing heavy rain and waterlogged roads in recent days, several vehicle owners reported that their number plates had become detached. The RTO noted that improperly fitted plates are more likely to come off during heavy rain, while prolonged exposure to extreme heat can also cause the plates’ colour to fade.

Officials said the issue goes beyond inconvenience. Missing, damaged or illegible number plates can make it difficult to identify vehicles and may be misused for criminal activities, making proper installation of HSRPs essential for vehicle identification and road safety.

The RTO has also instructed automobile dealers to collect only the prescribed fees and necessary documents while completing online registration procedures, ensuring that vehicle owners are not subjected to unnecessary inconvenience. DeshGujarat