The Central India Vintage Automotive Association (CIVAA), Nagpur has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari to withdraw the proposed 100% hike in re-registration and fitness charges for private vehicles older than 20 years.
In a letter to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), Dr. Anjan Kumar Chatterjee, Secretary of CIVAA, raised concerns over the draft gazette notification issued on February 7, 2025, which proposes a significant increase in re-registration and fitness renewal fees.
Proposed Fee Hike
- Two-wheelers: ₹1,000 to ₹2,000
- Light motor vehicles: ₹5,000 to ₹10,000
Dr. Chatterjee pointed out that in 2021, the government had already implemented a steep increase in April 2022, raising fees for 15-year-old two-wheelers from ₹50 to ₹1,000. Now, another hike to ₹2,000 is being proposed. Similarly, light motor vehicle fees were increased from ₹600 to ₹5,000, and under the new proposal, they would double to ₹10,000.
Concerns Over the Hike
CIVAA argues that two successive hikes in just three years violate natural justice and equity. The increase, described as “draconian,” will disproportionately impact:
- Economically weaker sections
- Retired individuals
- Self-employed workers and daily wagers
- Vintage vehicle enthusiasts
Speaking to The Hitavada, Dr. Chatterjee acknowledged the government’s efforts to phase out older vehicles to curb pollution. However, he emphasized that lower-middle-class families still rely on old vehicles for daily use and should not be financially burdened. He urged the government to explore alternative solutions instead of imposing hefty fees.
Impact on Vintage Vehicle Enthusiasts
Dr. Chatterjee also highlighted the negative impact on vintage car owners, who maintain vehicles over 50 years old but rarely use them on roads. He noted that vintage car owners already pay high re-registration fees along with a green tax every five years.
India has approximately 12,000 vintage cars and two-wheelers, with Nagpur alone housing around 300. Vintage car associations regularly organize rallies and participate in international events. The proposed fee hike, he warned, could discourage vintage vehicle preservation and hurt the community of enthusiasts.