HSRP booking woes: Vehicle owners seek extension as deadline approaches

Bengaluru:  As the deadline to replace old number plates with High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP) nears, vehicle owners are urging authorities for an extension as technical glitches hinder the process.

With the deadline set for February 17, many are facing challenges in booking HSRPs due to server slowdowns and other technical issues. The rush to meet the deadline has left numerous vehicle owners struggling to secure appointments, leading to calls for an additional month to accommodate the backlog.

Mahendra, a native of Madikeri currently residing at Bengaluru’s Jayanagara, expressed concern over the limited time frame, stating the difficulty in arranging for HSRP booking while being away from the vehicle’s location and amidst family commitments.

“I have a Honda Activa. While the vehicle is in Kodagu, I am working in Bengaluru. There are no automobile manufacturers in the town. Moreover, my family members are out of town. Only 7 days left for HSRP booking. What to do in such a case? At the very least, if the period is extended to 15 days, it would be beneficial,” says Mahendra.

Similarly, Vinay from Jayanagar highlighted confusion regarding the process, especially with the split of automobile companies, and urged for clarity from transport department officials.

“I have a Hero Honda Splendor. Now that the OEM company has split, who should we turn to? There is no clarity about this. There are many such confusions. There is a need for the transport department officials to pay attention to this too,” Vinay said.

Only 10 percent target achieved?

Meanwhile, it is gathered that only a fraction, approximately 10%, of vehicles slated for HSRP replacement have been successfully upgraded in the past four months, indicating a significant shortfall. An official on condition of anonymity disclosed to “Udayavani” that out of the total number of vehicles needing replacement, which exceeds 1.80 crores, only 13 to 14 lakh vehicles have received new numberplates. Among these, the majority are two-wheelers.

Despite efforts to raise awareness, a large number of vehicle owners across the state are still awaiting the transition, prompting further requests for an extension. The likelihood of extending the deadline is under consideration given the prevailing circumstances, the same official said.

To a query  C. Mallikarjuna, Additional Commissioner, Transport Department said: “Over the past three weeks, we have seen a positive response, with people voluntarily registering for HSRP. Thus far, HSRP plates have been installed on more than 15 lakh vehicles. We are confident that there will be a similar response in the upcoming week as well. The government will decide on the extension of time.”

How to book HSRP?

Here’s a step-by-step procedure for booking High-Security Registration Plates (HSRPs):

• Visit the official website of the Karnataka Transport Department: https://transport.karnataka.gov.in.
• Navigate to the HSRP booking section.
• Submit necessary documents, including the vehicle’s registration letter.
• Choose an approved dealer or seller from the options provided.
• Schedule an appointment for the installation of the HSRP.
• Attend the designated location at the appointed time for the installation process.

Awareness about HSRP is being actively promoted. However, the cooperation of motorists is crucial. Only vendors and dealers approved by Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are authorized to implement HSRP.

Applying online is mandatory, and a doorstep installation service is being implemented for convenience, an official said.