The North News
Chandigarh, June 16
In a move aimed at reducing years of administrative backlog and easing public inconvenience, the Punjab government has authorised regional transport offices to independently process the registration and renewal of vehicle Registration Certificates (RCs) and Driving Licences (DLs). The decision is expected to bring significant relief to citizens long grappling with delays caused by document approvals and digitisation bottlenecks.
Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar said the state has now enabled applicants to digitise old vehicle and licence records online and renew them through a defined procedure. A key barrier, Bhullar explained, had been the absence of digital records and lack of timely approval for old documents.
To address this, all Registering and Licensing Authorities have been directed to clear pending cases in accordance with the guidelines issued by the State Transport Commissioner on May 24, 2024. Bhullar added that applications involving older records must include a notarised affidavit from an Executive Magistrate. This must confirm details such as online digitisation, the category of the licence or vehicle, validity, dues clearance, and accuracy of information.
In RC-related cases, uploading a Motor Vehicle Inspector’s physical verification report—detailing chassis and engine numbers—has been made mandatory. Additionally, record updates must now include historical ownership data to preserve the transfer trail.
Backlog DLs must be routed through the original issuing authority. Verified and authenticated copies of previously and newly issued licences will be uploaded into the Sarathi software, along with original documents and proof of birth and address.
Bhullar clarified that designated permanent departmental employees will assist applicants by entering and verifying backlog data on the transport portal. The final responsibility for any discrepancies will rest with the registering and licensing authorities. He further emphasised that regional offices must submit daily progress reports to headquarters using a standardised format to maintain transparency and accountability.
