The process of issuing number plates for vehicles in Punjab has been problematic for several years. Vehicle owners in Punjab have experienced frustration and administrative obstacles when trying to obtain computerized number plates. Despite collecting fees from millions of vehicle owners, the process has been marred by delays and inefficiencies.
Sources have revealed that the Government plans to reform the issuance of number plates by introducing an open market regime. This new system will involve multiple vendors issuing number plates in Punjab as per government-approved designs, ending the monopoly of a single vendor and promoting healthy competition in the market.
A Move Towards Change
In the last three years, around three million vehicle owners in Punjab paid fees for their number plates but never received them, leading to widespread frustration.
To address these issues, the provincial cabinet has decided to remove the government’s control over number plate production and introduce competition among multiple companies. As a result, fees for number plates will no longer be required, marking a significant departure from the previous requirement for payment.
The objective is to streamline the registration process for vehicle owners. Faisal Fareed, the Excise Director General, is spearheading the implementation of these reforms, which include discontinuing the collection of fees for new or duplicate number plates and potentially saving individuals up to Rs. 500.
By allowing private companies to participate, the government aims to enhance efficiency and reduce costs for vehicle owners. Despite the challenges posed by a backlog of number plates for millions of individuals, efforts are underway to improve the system and provide a fair and efficient registration process for everyone.
