The Maharashtra government plans to close all 22 Regional Transport Office (RTO) border checkposts throughout the state. This action is in accordance with the central government’s directives and is a result of the nationwide rollout of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), which has made numerous conventional checkposts unnecessary.
Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has officially announced that all required administrative tasks have been finalized, and a positive report has been submitted to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The physical removal of the checkposts will commence once the Chief Minister provides his final approval.
Sarnaik emphasized that these posts, which were set up in 1966 to regulate vehicle movement and ensure adherence to transport laws, are now unnecessary due to the implementation of the GST and improvements in digital enforcement strategies. He noted, ‘Both the union transport minister and the Chief Minister of Maharashtra have instructed us to proceed with their closure.’
In 2009, the 22 check posts located in border regions were established, with Sadbhav Infrastructure Projects receiving the contract for their setup and operation. Three years ago, Adani Private Limited assumed responsibility for their management. According to a statement from the transport department, ‘The company has been overseeing the operations and maintenance of these posts.’ Following compensation to the operator, the transport department will take control of the technology, infrastructure, and assets. Eighteen states, including Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, have already closed their check posts.
An official from the department noted, ‘Numerous complaints have arisen regarding corruption and exploitation by transport department officials during the inspection of goods vehicles.’ He added, ‘These positions are viewed as highly desirable, often involving financial incentives, which may explain the delay in the decision to close them.’
(Newsroom staff only edited this story for style from a syndicated feed)
