Around 300 officials from Maharashtra’s transport department, including deputy and assistant regional transport officers and motor vehicle inspectors, have been served show-cause notices over alleged irregularities in issuing fitness certificates to commercial vehicles.
The notices follow an inquiry into whether mandatory safety requirements and prescribed procedures were followed while certifying taxis, tourist vehicles, tempos, trucks and other commercial vehicles. The investigation examined the work of 735 officials and inspectors between September 1, 2024 and March 5, 2026.
According to the inquiry, some vehicles were reportedly issued fitness certificates despite lacking mandatory safety equipment, including Vehicle Location Tracking Devices (VLTDs) and Speed Limiting Devices (SLDs). The devices are intended to improve monitoring and prevent commercial vehicles from exceeding specified speed limits.
The inquiry was initiated after complaints alleged that established procedures and standard operating protocols were being bypassed during the fitness certification process. A special committee formed on the state government’s instructions submitted its findings to the transport department on June 3.
The panel reviewed fitness-related records maintained by Regional Transport Offices as well as private Automated Testing Stations, which assess vehicles for roadworthiness.
Among the concerns identified was the certification of goods vehicles holding national permits without the required VLTDs. Passenger transport vehicles manufactured after January 1, 2019 were also allegedly certified without the mandated tracking devices.
The inquiry additionally flagged cases involving missing speed governors. The prescribed speed limits are 60 kmph for heavy vehicles and 80 kmph for app-based taxis and black-and-yellow cabs.
Procedural lapses involving Forms 38 and 38A were also highlighted. In certain cases, Form 38 was reportedly issued more than the stipulated 14 days after Form 38A was generated. There were also instances where Maharashtra RTOs allegedly issued Form 38 based on Form 38A obtained from neighbouring states despite lacking the authority to do so.
“These findings indicate several instances of non-compliance with the prescribed rules and procedures,” said a transport department official.
The notices allege failure to perform official duties in accordance with applicable rules and government directives. The officials have been asked to explain why disciplinary proceedings should not be initiated.
“The officials will have an opportunity to respond to the allegations. Further action will be taken after their explanations are examined,” said another official.
Senior officials said disciplinary measures, including suspension in suitable cases, could be considered after the responses are reviewed.
Source: Hindustan Times
Pic Credit: Times of India
