Bhubaneswar, August 27: A new vehicle classification policy of the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has raised concerns among vehicle owners in Odisha, with around 20 lakh vehicles reportedly moved to the permanent archive due to non-renewal of mandatory documents.

The move means the Registration Certificates (RCs) of these vehicles have been cancelled, making them illegal to ply on roads. Concerns have also been raised over the alleged lack of prior information to vehicle owners about the cancellation of their registrations.

Another 30 lakh vehicles have reportedly been placed in the temporary archive. Their RCs could be cancelled if owners fail to renew the required documents within the stipulated period.

Odisha has around 1.1 crore registered private and commercial vehicles. According to State Transport Authority (STA) sources, only about 40 lakh vehicles have all their documents in order, while the rest have one or more documentation-related deficiencies. Around 65 lakh vehicles reportedly do not have valid insurance.

Under the new policy, vehicles are being classified into four categories based on their documentation status and other parameters. The process is being carried out using data from the Vahan database, including information on expired and unrenewed documents.

The move has drawn criticism, with some alleging that stricter enforcement could force owners of older vehicles to buy new ones, potentially benefiting automobile manufacturers while increasing the financial burden on the public.

However, officials said the policy is a Central Government rule and the state transport department has limited authority over its implementation.

Deepti Ranjan Patra, Additional Commissioner of the STA, urged vehicle owners to update their RC, insurance, PUC and other mandatory documents before enforcement action is taken.