Kolhapur RTO Re-Inspects 23,000 Vehicles Over 15 Years Old; Road Safety Enforcement Gaps Raised

Kolhapur RTO conducted re-inspection of 23,564 vehicles aged 15 years or above, highlighting road safety concerns and delays in penalising vehicles still plying without proper fitness checks

Kolhapur/Maharashtra, January 31, 2026:Kolhapur’s Regional Transport Office (RTO) has reviewed the roadworthiness of a large number of older vehicles, completing re-inspection of 23,564 vehicles that have completed 15 years of service between January and December 2025. The re-inspection drives were aimed at improving road safety and reducing pollution from aged vehicles that may be unsafe on public roads.

Of the vehicles surveyed, 11,900 were four-wheelers and 11,611 were two-wheelers, all crossing the 15-year mark. Under the Motor Vehicles Act, vehicles older than 15 years are required to undergo periodic fitness checks and have their registration renewed upon passing inspection to ensure they meet safety and emission norms before continuing to run on public roads.

However, the RTO’s action has raised questions about enforcement, as many older vehicles continue to ply without renewed fitness certificates despite the statutory requirement. Motorists and road safety advocates have pointed out that unfit vehicles on the road significantly increase the risk of accidents and contribute to environmental pollution.

Under vehicle regulations, owners of vehicles that have completed 15 years are expected to get their vehicle’s fitness certification renewed, failing which they may face penalties or restrictions. In practice, some vehicle owners delay compliance due to the time and cost associated with inspection and re-registration.

The RTO drive emphasises the importance of compliance with fitness norms to safeguard public safety, but has also highlighted operational challenges in enforcing rules consistently. Authorities may now consider stricter penalties for non-compliance and increased awareness campaigns to ensure that older vehicles on the road are safe.

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