After HC order, Keralam MVD steps up crackdown on illegal vehicle modifications

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Under the new directive of the MVD, a separate fine will be imposed for each unauthorised modification found on a vehicle (file image) | Photo Credit: The Hindu

Close on the heels of a Kerala High Court order directing the State government to take strict action against unauthorised vehicle modifications, the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) in Keralam has stepped up its crackdown on errant vehicle owners who carried out unauthorised vehicle modifications.

The move comes barely two months after the State government allowed certain modifications to vehicles under restricted conditions.

According to MVD officials, the decision to intensify inspections follows the High Court order. Under the new directive of the MVD, a separate fine will be imposed for each unauthorised modification found on a vehicle. After paying the fine, the owner must restore the vehicle to its original condition and present it for re-inspection by the MVD.

The department has also instructed officials to identify vehicles modified specifically for shooting social media reels. The Transport Commissionerate has directed all Regional Transport Officers (RTOs) to submit reports on action taken over the past three months by September 3.

The High Court recently directed the MVD’s Enforcement wing and the Kerala Police to impose strict penalties on vehicles with illegal modifications being used in public places in violation of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989.

The court issued the directive in connection with a case involving a modified four-wheeler that featured in media reports following flood rescue operations in Adoor in the first week of August. It observed that using modified vehicles in public places without complying with the law could endanger the safety of other road users.

According to MVD officials, each unauthorised modification, including aftermarket multifunction lights, red-blue strobe lights, wheel spacers and wide tyres that extend beyond the vehicle body, and aftermarket exhaust systems with ‘flame kits’, will attract a fine of ₹5,000.

In June, the MVD prepared a report identifying around 18 types of modifications that can be permitted, including stickers and ambient lighting, without prior approval of the MVD. The report followed a statement by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan ahead of the Assembly elections that vehicle modifications would be permitted if the UDF came to power. The announcement generated considerable excitement among Gen Z motorists on social media.

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