No fitness certificate for transport vehicles without QR code: Telangana to roll out verification system

Hyderabad: In a major road safety initiative, the Transport Department of the Telangana Government has announced the implementation of a QR code-based verification system for reflective tapes and rear marking plates on transport vehicles.

The new system will come into force across the state from February 20.

The move aims to enhance the visibility of transport vehicles during night hours and reduce road accidents. The verification mechanism will be implemented through a QR-based Management Information System (MIS) in accordance with Rules 104 to 104(E) of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989.

QR-based verification system from February 20

Under the new system, transport vehicles for which reflective tapes and rear marking plates are mandatory must undergo QR-based authentication. Without this verification, Fitness Certificates will not be issued.

A limited exemption of three months from the date of circular issuance will be provided for newly affixed tapes. After that, QR verification will become fully mandatory.

Five OEMs empanelled

After scrutiny of applications as per government orders, the department has empanelled the following five Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), authorised until February 8, 2027:

1. Orafol India Private Limited

2. 3M India Limited

3. Glodian Reflective Pvt. Ltd. (Reflomax)

4. Daoming Reflective Material India Pvt. Ltd.

5. Avery Dennison India Pvt. Ltd.

No other company or individual is permitted to affix reflective tapes or rear marking plates in the state.

Implementation guidelines

Only authorised dealers/applicators of the empanelled OEMs may install reflective tapes.

The tapes must carry a Telangana Transport Department hologram along with a unique serial number and QR code.

After installation, an ‘Affixation Certificate’ must be issued.

The certificate should include vehicle details, OEM details, photographs and a minimum two-year warranty.

Verification will be mandatory from three months onwards

Vehicles falling under Rules 104–104(E) must complete QR-based verification to obtain a Fitness Certificate. After the three-month relaxation period, compliance will be strictly enforced statewide.

Government-approved price caps

The government has fixed maximum retail prices (inclusive of affixation and certification charges) as follows:

CT 20MM (per metre): Rs 79.80 to Rs 85

CT 50MM (per metre): Rs 145 to Rs 151.80

C3 (per pair): Rs 2,500 to Rs 2,650

C4 (per pair): Rs 2,800 to Rs 2,900

Reflectors 40MM: Rs 35

Reflectors 80MM: Rs 60

Charging beyond these rates will invite strict action, including cancellation of empanelment and forfeiture of bank guarantees.

Monitoring and enforcement

Transport Department officials will conduct verification through QR scanning. Legal action will be initiated against violators. The department has also mandated that at least one authorised dealer be available in every district.

Appeal to vehicle owners

The Transport Department has urged vehicle owners to install reflective tapes only through authorised dealers of empanelled OEMs and to verify the approved price list before payment.

The initiative is expected to significantly improve the night-time visibility of transport vehicles and play a crucial role in reducing road accidents across Telangana.