Thiruvananthapuram, 28 July (H.S.):The Kerala Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) has launched a statewide public survey to gather opinions on vehicle alterations and modifications, signalling a possible review of the existing rules governing vehicle customisation. The initiative comes amid increasing demands from automobile enthusiasts, particularly young motorists, for greater flexibility in modifying their vehicles.
The move follows remarks by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan during his first press conference, where he responded positively to a question on permitting vehicle modifications. His comments generated considerable enthusiasm among vehicle owners and modification enthusiasts across the State, raising expectations of a more liberal policy.
Subsequently, the MVD prepared a report identifying 18 categories of vehicle modifications that are already permissible under the existing legal framework. However, Transport Commissioner Nagaraju Chakilam clarified that the report did not introduce any fresh relaxations but merely reiterated the modifications currently allowed under the Motor Vehicles Act and the Central Motor Vehicles Rules.
Through the survey, the department aims to collect public suggestions, understand the needs of vehicle owners and identify concerns relating to vehicle alterations and personalisation. Officials said the responses would help the government assess whether changes are required in the existing guidelines while ensuring that road safety and environmental standards remain uncompromised.
In a message accompanying the survey, the MVD said any future policy revisions would seek to strike a balance between encouraging automotive enthusiasm and maintaining strict safety and environmental norms.
Vehicle alterations are governed by Section 52 of the Motor Vehicles Act and Rule 112 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules. According to the MVD's report, owners can carry out several modifications without obtaining prior permission from the department. These include fitting seat covers, steering wheel covers, door visors, mud flaps, stickers, ambient interior lighting, reverse cameras, dash cameras, GPS trackers, infotainment systems, tyre pressure monitoring systems, roof carriers, chrome garnishes and sun films that maintain a minimum visible light transmission of 50 per cent.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
