
Pune's Regional Transport Office has formally switched from the MH-12 vehicle registration code to MH-61 for all new four-wheelers and two-wheelers, after the old series was exhausted. The order was issued on…
Pune's Regional Transport Office has formally switched from the MH-12 vehicle registration code to MH-61 for all new four-wheelers and two-wheelers, after the old series was exhausted. The order was issued on Tuesday by regional transport officer Archana Gayakwad.

The new four-wheeler series will start with MH-61 A 0001. The RTO will accept applications for preferred numbers on August 27, with an auction on August 28 at Sahakar Sabhagruh. The move ensures no disruption in registrations.
The RTO had explored retaining MH-12 through an alphanumeric format like MH-12 1A, but that requires central government approval and more time. Officials said MH-12 could eventually return once the technical and regulatory process is complete.
This is not the first time a Pune series has been exhausted: MH-14 and MH-13 preceded MH-12 as the city grew. The switch affects lakhs of new vehicle buyers each year, who now carry MH-61 on number plates, registration certificates and insurance documents. The auction for fancy numbers is a routine revenue earner for the RTO. The real question is whether the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways will approve the alphanumeric format that could restore MH-12, and how long that clearance will take. Until then, MH-61 is the permanent-seeming temporary solution.
Source: hindustantimes.com
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