Patna: The Patna High Court has directed authorities to ensure strict compliance with rules governing the operation of commercial vehicles, stating that running such vehicles without a valid fitness certificate or after the expiry of registration is illegal.
A division bench comprising Chief Justice Sangam Kumar Sahoo and Justice Harish Kumar initiated suo motu proceedings in the matter.
During the hearing, court-appointed amicus curiae Advocate Amish Kumar informed the bench that an immediate ban has been imposed on commercial vehicles older than 15 years within the jurisdiction of the Patna Municipal Corporation and the municipal councils of Danapur, Khagaul and Phulwarisharif.
He also referred to provisions under Rules 5, 6, 8 and 13 of the Motor Vehicles (Registration and Functions of Vehicle Scrapping Facility) Rules, 2021, stating that a detailed framework already exists for the scrapping of end-of-life vehicles.
Appearing for the state, Government Advocate Vikas Kumar submitted that the competent authority retains the power to renew registration for vehicles older than 15 years.
After hearing the arguments, the bench directed authorities to ensure strict enforcement of registration validity and fitness certification requirements for all commercial vehicles.
The court further ordered that such vehicles be identified through CCTV surveillance installed at key intersections and major roads across the city, and that appropriate action be taken against violations.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on June 24.
