Path cleared for new RTOs and sub-RTOs across Maharashtra; each office will cover more than 5 lakh registered vehicles and serve a population exceeding seven lakh

Mumbai: With the increase in number of vehicles across the state, including Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), Maharashtra government has given its nod for setting up new Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) and sub-RTOs.

The decision seeks to make transport-related services faster, more accessible, and citizen-friendly.

At present there are a total 24 RTOs and 36 sub-RTOs across the state.The total vehicular population in Mumbai has exceeded 54 lakh, while that across the state is over four crore, with a majority being two-wheelers.The initiative comes in response to the steady rise in vehicle registrations, growing population, and increasing administrative burden on the existing transport infrastructure.

An expert committee appointed by the transport department has already submitted its report to the government, outlining key recommendations. The process for granting in-principle approval is currently underway.The proposed expansion aims to particularly benefit citizens in remote and rapidly urbanising areas, who have to travel long distances to access essential services such as vehicle registration, issuance of driving licences, vehicle inspections, and tax payments.

To ensure systematic growth, the state government has laid down clear criteria for the establishment of new transport offices. Each proposed office must cater to at least four talukas, cover more than five lakh registered vehicles, and serve a population exceeding seven lakh. Additionally, the area must generate annual revenue of over Rs 100 crore. Regions located more than 50km from an existing RTO will be given priority.

In areas where a full-fledged office may not be viable, the government plans to set up Automated Testing Stations for vehicles and Automated Driving Test Tracks to improve access to essential services.Speaking on the development, transport minister Pratap Sarnaik said the government’s primary focus is to deliver quality and timely services. “Strengthening transport infrastructure is essential in view of the rapid increase in vehicle numbers.

The new offices will significantly reduce citizens’ time, cost, and inconvenience,” he stated.The move is also expected to generate employment opportunities at the local level, while enhancing transparency and efficiency through technology-driven service centres. Overall, the decision is seen as a major step towards modernising Maharashtra’s transport system and making it more responsive to citizens’ needs.