Hyderabad, February 22: Come May 31, all vehicle owners will have to switch over to High Security Registration Number Plates (HSRNP). Though it was to be implemented four years ago, it could not take off due to various problems .
But now, decks appear to have been cleared and the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) is gearing up to enforce the new system .
Officials in the Transport department told Expresso that initially the HSRNP would be implemented in the city and later would be enforced in other districts .
“We have prepared the action plan for its implementation from May 31,” sources said .
The new number plates will display the chassis and engine number of the vehicle apart from the registration number. The new high security number plates will have a uniform serial for the entire country and a unique hologram that cannot be faked .
“The new number plates will display more information apart from the registration number and will be more durable than the ones used now. With better protection against corrosion, the security plates are expected to last almost the lifetime of the vehicle,” officials said. It is learnt that the RTA will enforce the new system of HSRNP in the twin cities as a pilot project. Initially, it will be implemented for two and four-wheelers. Officials said it would help prevent vehicle thefts .
From May end, all new vehicles in the city will have to have these number plates. “With the high security number plates, vehicle thefts will be impossible .
It will also help in tracking down stolen vehicles,’’ they said .
“This plate cannot be easily removed or replaced,’’ officials said .
It is learnt that the tamper-proof number plate will cost about Rs 2,000 apiece .
According to RTA officials, the high security number plates are made from high quality aluminium coated with a line reflective glaze. They will feature black hot stamping foils that make the new generation number display impossible to tamper with or duplicate .
The new plates will not only improve security for on-road vehicles but also help better policing of city traffic, officials opined .
—Agencies