Government says no fine, but forces embossed plates through registration and renewal ban

Kathmandu: The Department of Transport Management, after facing widespread opposition, has labeled the installation of embossed number plates as ‘voluntary,’ saying no fines will be imposed immediately. In practice, however, it has made the system mandatory starting 1 Asoj. Since embossed plates are now required for key services such as vehicle transfer, registration, and renewal, vehicle owners have little choice but to comply.

Although the department’s press release states there will be no fines, the mandatory requirement for these services from 1 Asoj renders the assurance meaningless. To access these services, owners are automatically compelled to install the plates.

Under the new rule, those purchasing old vehicles after 1 Asoj cannot transfer ownership until an embossed plate is installed. Likewise, vehicle owners whose blue book renewal date has arrived will only be able to renew after installing the plate. To avoid fines for late renewal, they will also be forced to comply. For new vehicle registrations, this provision is already in place.

 

Amid public protests and boycott threats, the department issued a statement on Tuesday, urging owners to “attach them at the appropriate time.” Yet, its underlying strategy appears designed to boost the number of installations regardless.

While showrooms are facilitating the process for new vehicle buyers, millions of service seekers trying to transfer or renew older vehicles are expected to face major hassles.

 

Govinda Khadka of Sindhupalchowk, who bought a new motorcycle recently, said his showroom handled the process smoothly by forwarding the details to the Gurjudhara Transport Management Office. “It was done in about an hour, including the dhadda work. It was easy for me, but I saw others facing problems. Those who transfer or renew vehicles won’t get it as easily as I did,” Khadka said.

Meanwhile, transport entrepreneurs and the general public continue to oppose the policy, pointing to the lack of Nepali language on the plates, high fees, and allegations of favoritism toward contractors. The government, however, appears committed to pushing embossed plates through indirect enforcement.

 

 

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