Strict action ordered over RTO fitness certificate lapses

State transport department ordered a detailed inquiry into irregularities in issuance of vehicle fitness certificates under form 38A of the Motor Vehicles Act.

Transport minister Pratap Sarnaik directed the transport commissioner to submit the inquiry report without delay and initiate strict action against responsible officials.

A committee headed by the joint transport commissioner, constituted on March 5, 2026, uncovered multiple violations including fitness certificates issued beyond the mandatory 15-day period after form 38A.

Some nationally permitted transport vehicles received fitness certificates without mandatory vehicle location tracking devices (VLTDs), and passenger vehicles made after January 1, 2019, were also given certificates without VLTDs.

Irregularities were identified at transport offices in Panvel, Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Vashi, Thane, Andheri, and Wadal.