Bengaluru: The mandatory deadline for the installation of High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) on all vehicles has been extended by an additional three months, now slated for completion by Feb. 17, 2024.

Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy clarified that the decision to prolong the deadline was prompted by the limited number of HSRP installations thus far and an ongoing court case associated with the matter. He said, “Given the current circumstances, we have decided to extend the deadline until Feb. 17, 2024.”

The Department is enforcing these regulations based on the directives of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. Reddy emphasised that those who fail to install the new number plates after the deadline will face penalties.

The Transport Department issued a notification in August of this year mandating the installation of HSRP on approximately two crore vehicles registered before April 1, 2019, with the original deadline set for Nov. 17, 2023.

It was also communicated that fines would be imposed on vehicles lacking HSRP number plates after Nov. 17. With the extension of the period, motorists can now breathe a sigh of relief.

On Aug. 17, the State Government issued a notification mandating the exclusive implementation of HSRP by authorised dealers of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

Despite the earlier deadline announcement, the response was inadequate, with many expressing dissatisfaction due to the Transport Department’s unclear notification on the new HSRP purchase process.

In response to public discontent, the Department shared details on an online portal for purchasing the new number plate. However, this did not fully address the challenges faced by motorists when booking HSRPs for their vehicles.

Members of the public are required to apply for a new number plate online https://www.siam.in/hrspsubmit.aspx?mpgid=91&pgidtrail=91 and make the necessary payment, posing a considerable challenge for motorists in rural areas. Approximately two crore vehicle owners across the State are obligated to obtain new number plates.