Transport Department introduces new smart RC, driving licences

By Dheeraj Fartode

In a welcome development for motorists in Maharashtra, the State’s Transport Department has taken decisive steps to address the prolonged delays in obtaining smart cards for vehicle registration certificates (RC) and driving licence. By leveraging modern machines, the Department aims to significantly expedite the printing process and produce a remarkable 45,000 smart cards per day at RTO offices in Nagpur, Pune and Mumbai. As against demand, approximately 80 lakh smart cards are printed in the State each year. The Transport Department has terminated its contract with a Hyderabad-based company responsible for supplying smart cards and awarded it to Manipal Technology Company (MCT) in Karnataka. As a result, the Department can now expect a minimum daily supply of 45,000 smart cards.

Speaking to ‘The Hitavada’, Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar expressed confidence in the improved smart

card system and assuring vehicle owners of high-quality cards and a seamless process. The changes implemented by the Transport Department will eliminate the need for prolonged waiting periods and provide highly durable cards to the vehicle owners. The users will receive their smart cards in a timely manner, he promised. The vehicle owners can anticipate receiving the new smart cards, which come with improved quality and a lower cost compared to their predecessors. Notably, the revised smart card format eliminates the need for a chip and is constructed from durable polycarbonate material, ensuring resistance to heat and longer-lasting performance.

The key highlight of the new smart card design is the implementation of laser engraving technology, guaranteeing high-quality printing of the vehicle owner’s name and photo without any blurring. The revised pricing for obtaining a vehicle license will be reduced to Rs 64, and the fee for RC withdrawal will also be Rs 64, a notable decrease from the previous rates of Rs 94 and Rs 56, respectively.