Implement HSRP scheme to help curb crime, says expert

Bathinda, October 21

Road safety expert Kamaljeet Soi today said there was need to strictly implement high security registration plate (HSRP) scheme to curb drug trafficking as in the most cases vehicles are used.

Soi was addressing mediapersons during the launch of ‘Mission Safe Malwa’ here on Thursday.

20L vehicles sans security plates

The HSRP scheme was initiated by the govt in 2012, but nothing much was done to implement it. As a result even today almost 20 lakh vehicles are still plying on the roads without HSRPs — Kamaljeet Sohi, Road Safety Expert

Soi, who is also a member of National Road Safety Council, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, said, “Unlike two other regions of the state, Malwa is most affected by drug trafficking, liquor smuggling and other crimes. A majority of these crimes are carried out by miscreants using vehicles. A strict adherence to high security registration plates can play a pivotal role in curbing the crime rate in the region.”

“Shockingly, in case of deaths in road accidents, 35 per cent of vehicles never get identified. Consequently, the police close the cases. Some miscreants have also started affixing fake HSRPs on their vehicles which in turn are used for different crimes thereby making it difficult for the police to track them down. It’s a grave concern that needs serious intervention of the authorities concerned and government.”

“The HSRP scheme was initiated by the state government in year 2012, but nothing much was done to implement it. As a result even today almost 20 lakh vehicles are still plying on the roads without HSRPs.” He exhorted the Transport Department to issue necessary instructions to its officials to start enforcing the scheme. — TNS