Unregistered Vehicles Flood Pune Streets, Raising Safety and Enforcement Concerns
Pune, India – September 22, 2025 – A surge in vehicles operating without registration number plates is causing alarm in pune, prompting calls for stricter enforcement and raising concerns about public safety and potential criminal activity. Authorities report a notable increase in sightings of these unregistered vehicles across the city in recent weeks, with reports concentrated in areas like Hinjewadi, Wakad, and Kharadi.
The proliferation of vehicles lacking proper identification poses a multifaceted challenge. beyond hindering traffic law enforcement – including the ability to track vehicles involved in accidents or traffic violations – the anonymity afforded by unregistered plates facilitates illicit activities. Experts warn this trend could contribute to increased instances of hit-and-run cases, vehicle theft, and the use of vehicles in criminal enterprises. The Regional Transport Office (RTO) is facing mounting pressure to address the issue, with citizens demanding immediate action to curb the growing problem.
According to data released by the Pune RTO on September 21, 2025, enforcement teams have identified over 500 unregistered vehicles during routine checks in the last month alone. While the exact number of such vehicles operating citywide remains unknown, officials acknowledge the figure is likely substantially higher. “We are intensifying our surveillance and conducting regular drives to intercept these vehicles,” stated a senior RTO official, requesting anonymity. “However, the sheer volume makes it a tough task.We need public cooperation to effectively tackle this issue.”
The RTO emphasizes that operating a vehicle without a registration plate is a violation of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, carrying a penalty of up to ₹5,000 for the first offense and potential imprisonment for repeat offenders. Despite the legal repercussions,the practice persists,fueled by factors ranging from delayed vehicle registration processes to intentional attempts to evade accountability.
Authorities are exploring several strategies to combat the problem, including increased deployment of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology and collaboration with local police to identify and apprehend owners of unregistered vehicles. Citizens are encouraged to report sightings of such vehicles to the RTO or local police stations to assist in the ongoing investigation. The RTO plans to launch a public awareness campaign next week to educate vehicle owners about the importance of timely registration and the consequences of non-compliance.