Vehicle modifications could lead to hefty fines; MVD tightens action against violations

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala government’s plan to allow certain vehicle modifications has hit a roadblock, with the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) deciding to take strict action against unauthorised modifications. Transport Commissioner C.H. Nagaraju has directed officials to act against such violations following a High Court order.

The Transport Commissioner has instructed officials to impose fines and take further action under existing laws and regulations for every unauthorised modification found in a vehicle. The move also comes as a setback to the government’s announcement under its 100-day action plan to decriminalise modifications that do not pose a safety risk.

Following the government’s direction, the Transport Commissioner had submitted a report on June 4 outlining the types of modifications that could be permitted. The report proposed allowing 18 common modifications, including seat covers, floor mats and steering wheel covers. However, the High Court order has effectively put those recommendations on hold.

Any modification that changes a vehicle from its original manufactured condition is considered a violation. However, this may not apply to routine changes made while repairing damage to a vehicle.

Action against vehicles modified for reels

Two MVD officials who fined a modified jeep in Adoor were recently suspended following political pressure. The complaint was that they had issued a fine to a vehicle that had arrived in Pathanamthitta for flood rescue operations. However, the MVD maintained that the vehicle had been modified and was being used to shoot social media reels.

The Transport Commissioner’s circular specifically directs officials to take legal action against vehicles that have been modified for making reels.

Other instructions

1. After imposing a fine for a vehicle modification, officials must direct the owner to restore the vehicle to its original condition and produce it for inspection.
2. Officials have also been instructed to submit details of the action taken against vehicle modifications during the three-month period to the Transport Commissioner by September 3.

Hefty fines for vehicle modifications

1. Protruding tyres: A fine of Rs 5,000 will be imposed for each tyre modified in a way that makes it protrude beyond the vehicle’s body. If all four tyres are modified, the total fine will be Rs 20,000.
2. Extra lights and air horns: A fine of Rs 5,000 will be imposed for every additional light fitted to a vehicle beyond the permitted number. Installing an air horn will also attract a Rs 5,000 fine.