Goa is steadily embracing technology-driven traffic enforcement, and the installation of High Security Registration Plates (HSRPs) is an important part of this transition. These plates help prevent vehicle theft, reduce the use of fake registration numbers, and improve the efficiency of automated traffic monitoring. Vehicles registered on or after April 1, 2019 are already fitted with HSRPs before leaving the showroom. However, owners of vehicles registered before that date must go through a lengthy and often frustrating process to obtain the new plates. Limited appointment slots, long waiting periods, repeated visits, and procedural delays have made compliance both time-consuming and inconvenient. At the same time, India has strict rules regarding the lifespan of vehicles. In many cities, private petrol cars cannot be used after 15 years, while diesel vehicles are restricted after just 10 years unless permitted under applicable regulations. The government should therefore consider waiving the mandatory HSRP requirement for vehicles that are close to the end of their permitted lifespan. A balanced approach that considers both security needs and the realities faced by owners of old vehicles would make the HSRP programme more fair, efficient, and citizen-friendly.
ADELMO FERNANDES, Vasco
