Managluru: Smart card distribution delays leave vehicle owners in limbo

Team Udayavani, Feb 22, 2024, 8:55 AM IST

A significant number of vehicle owners are experiencing frustration as delays persist in the distribution of Registration Certificate (RC) and Driving License (DL) smart cards. Despite purchasing new vehicles two to three months ago, many individuals are yet to receive their smart cards, causing inconvenience and uncertainty.

The root of the problem lies in the delay in smart card distribution under the Regional Transport Office (RTO). The responsibility for preparing these smart cards has been entrusted to the private company. However, delays have arisen due to challenges in software transfer and printing, compounded by the non-availability of adequate documents for certain cards.

The situation has left vehicle owners in limbo, with some resorting to multiple visits to the RTO office in hopes of obtaining their smart cards.
Despite receiving messages indicating that the cards have been dispatched, recipients find themselves empty-handed upon tracking the shipment, exacerbating the frustration.

The absence of RC smart cards poses a significant hurdle for vehicle owners, as it is a prerequisite for acquiring essential documents such as licenses and Fitness Certificates (FC). Without these documents, individuals are unable to legally operate their vehicles, further exacerbating the inconvenience caused by the delay in distribution.

According to officials, the company has been tasked with producing 400 smart cards per day, yet challenges persist in transferring vehicle information to the National Information Center and the printing process. As a result, only a fraction of the required smart cards are being produced daily, prolonging the distribution process.

Acknowledging the issue, Yogish AM, State Transport Commissioner, affirmed that efforts are underway to resolve the problem, assuring that minor confusions are being promptly addressed.

On the other hand, Sridhar Mallad, Mangaluru Deputy Transport Commissioner, stated that most smart cards are nearing completion, with the resolution of the issue expected in the coming weeks.

In Mangaluru alone, approximately 5700 individuals await the issuance of smart cards. However, authorities are optimistic that the situation will soon be rectified, bringing relief to affected vehicle owners.