Pune: Transport minister Pratap Sarnaik on Monday ruled out any further extension for installing High Security Registration Plates (HSRPs), saying enforcement action would begin from July 1.“We have extended the deadline several times, but it hasn’t made much difference. People are still not taking it seriously. There will be no further extension and action against non-compliant vehicles will start from July 1,” Sarnaik told TOI, while admitting that the three state-empanelled firms had failed to cater to the massive demand.The minister said plans were afoot to empanel at least 30 firms to push HSRP compliance. “The contract of the three firms remains valid till Dec 31. We plan to expand this network. A fresh tender process is under way. We intend to empanel at least 30 firms after the existing contracts expire to speed up implementation and improve reach,” Sarnaik said.He said fewer than 60% of the vehicles registered before April 2019 across Maharashtra had been fitted with HSRPs. Sarnaik termed the figures “disappointing,” adding that stricter enforcement, including a Rs 1,000 fine from July 1, might push more vehicle owners to comply. “People have had enough time since the drive began in Dec 2024,” he said.In Pune, only 39% of eligible vehicles have been fitted with HSRPs so far. Transport officials admitted that the response across the state had been lacklustre. “We are exploring ways to improve the coverage. The process also needs to be simplified and discussions are under way on making it easier for vehicle owners,” an official said.On cab aggregator policySarnaik said the final draft of the cab aggregator police was expected to be cleared soon and could be notified within the week. Referring to the Bharat Taxi app’s launch in Pune, he said the company began operations without prior approval. “They should have sought permission before starting services. Once the new policy is in place, we want more players in the market to ensure fair competition and reduce the dominance of Uber and Ola,” the minister said.
