Mumbai firm to make high-tech car plates in MP

Madhya Pradesh has taken early steps to produce high-security registration plates for vehicles. Headquartered in Mumbai, Emperor Granites Pvt Ltd is going to set up a high-security registration plates manufacturing unit in Gwalior.

The Audyogik Kendra Vikas Nigam is learnt to have allotted a land area of 2 acres. The company will make an investment of Rs 15 crore in the project.

The Technical Standing Committee on Central Motor Vehicles Rules of the central government has amended Rule 50 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, mandating the introduction of high-security registration plates, both in respect of new and in-use motor vehicles throughout the country.

The high-security registration plates will have a chromium hologram, a retro-reflective film, bearing the inscription 'India' at an inclination of 45 degrees. The registration number of the vehicle will be embossed on the plates. These plates will also be tamper-proof.

With a self-destructing quality, a chromium-based sticker will also be attached to the wind shield, wherein the number of the engine and the chassis will be indicated, along with the name of registering authority.

The company has been allotted land in Stone Park, which is being developed on an area of 37 hectare. The plant will be ready by December 2006. Emperor is one of the vendors that have been given the "Type Approval" certificate by the authorised testing agencies under the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989.

Emperor Granites is also working on diamond exploration in the Raipur area. A number of firms have invested in Gwalior, particularly in the Malanpur, Banmore and Ghirongi areas, prime among which are Modi, Wartsila and Hotline.