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RTO officials stated that the significant increase in driving licence fees was aimed at enhancing road safety. (Image for representation)
This sharp increase, which represents a fivefold jump, is expected to place a considerable financial burden on the local populace.
In a significant financial blow to residents, the cost of obtaining a driving licence in Ghaziabad will increase substantially starting next month. Currently priced at Rs 1,350, the fee will escalate to Rs 6,000 under the new rate structure. For commercial vehicle drivers, the fee will rise to Rs 10,000.
This sharp increase, which represents a fivefold jump, is expected to place a considerable financial burden on the local populace. The announcement has already sparked dissent among residents.
In response to the fee hike, new driving training centres are being established in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh. However, the costs associated with these centres are higher compared to those in neighbouring cities and states. For instance, driving licence fee in Delhi is Rs 400, while in Punjab, it is Rs 700.
RTO officials stated that the significant increase in driving licence fees was aimed at enhancing road safety. According to officials, the new fee structure, which now includes the cost of mandatory driving training, is designed to reduce road accidents by improving driving standards.
However, concerns have been raised by the public regarding this new system. Some argue that shifting driving training to private centres may lead to arbitrary fee collections. Some also suggest that, similar to practices in Delhi and other states, driving licences should be issued only after a driving test, rather than through the extensive training currently required.
Some also expressed concerns that the rise in driving licence fees might exacerbate corruption. They argue that brokers, who currently charge up to Rs 5,000 for processing at RTO offices, might exploit the new system as well. There’s a fear that brokers will form alliances and increase their influence, leading to even more widespread corruption.
Updated Fee Structure Released by RTO Officials:
- Light Vehicles: Rs 6,000
- Medium and Heavy Vehicles: Rs 10,000
- Vehicle Maintenance Training: Rs 1,000
- Traffic Education: Rs 500
- Refresher Course: Rs 1,000
- Night and Mountain Driving Training: Rs 1,000
- Handling Dangerous Goods Training: Rs 500
- Training for Road Accidents: Rs 500
