Pune RTO Switches to MH-61 Registration After 37 Years

Pune’s Regional Transport Office (RTO) is transitioning to the MH-61 vehicle registration series, marking a significant change after 37 years. This shift follows the exhaustion of all available alphanumeric combinations under the previous MH-12 code.

Key Details of the Registration Shift

Pune stands as the first city in Maharashtra to face this particular issue of exhausted registration series. The RTO manages a substantial fleet, overseeing more than 44.88 lakh live registered vehicles within its jurisdiction.

Historically, the MH-12 code has been the identifier for Pune vehicles since its implementation on July 1, 1989. The recent conclusion of the last ZZ series under MH-12 necessitated this immediate transition.

The process for introducing MH-61 is already underway, with applications for fancy numbers currently being accepted. New vehicle registrations under the MH-61 code are expected to commence shortly, following essential backend testing by the National Informatics Centre (NIC).

Temporary Measure and Legislative Hurdles

Officials have clarified that the new MH-61 series is a temporary arrangement. This code will remain in effect until the Union government approves a new alphanumeric format, which could potentially allow Pune to retain its original MH-12 identity.

Earlier proposals to extend the MH-12 series included formats such as MH-12 1A, MH-12 A1, and MH-12 AAA. These options were explored as solutions to the impending exhaustion.

The MH-12 AAA format, for instance, would have resulted in an 11-character registration number. Implementing this would require amendments to the Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR) and significant changes to the NIC’s system, ultimately not receiving approval.

Similarly, formats like MH-12 1A also necessitate CMVR amendments for immediate implementation. This legislative process typically involves at least 45 days for public notification, suggestions, and objections before final approval.

Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol had previously advocated for the continuation of the MH-12 code for Pune. This request received an affirmative response from Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, indicating ongoing governmental efforts to find a permanent solution for the city.

This transition underscores the growing pressure on existing alphanumeric systems as vehicle populations continue to expand in major Indian cities. The Union government’s eventual decision on a permanent format will establish a crucial precedent for other urban centers likely to encounter similar registration challenges.