Vehicle modifications get green light in Kerala; seven changes allowed under new rules

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Motor Vehicles Department has allowed certain modifications to vehicles subject to strict conditions. Seven types of changes, including modifications to the engine and chassis, have been permitted under an order issued by Transport Commissioner G. Sparjan Kumar. Modifications can be carried out only with the required approval from the Transport Department, and the changes must be recorded in the vehicle's Registration Certificate (RC). The permission has been granted in accordance with the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and the rules framed under it.

A change in the vehicle's colour is permitted only with the approval of the registering authority and after the change is recorded in the RC. Colours prohibited under Central Motor Vehicle Rule 121 or by decisions of the State Transport Authority cannot be used. An engine can be replaced only with one having the same specifications as the engine originally used in the vehicle, including the same model, capacity and power. The replacement engine must be from the same manufacturer, and installing an engine taken from another vehicle will not be permitted.

Changes to the chassis frame and body structure will be permitted with prior approval and after the modifications are recorded in the RC. However, a chassis manufactured for one type of vehicle cannot be used for another type of vehicle. The order also permits changes to the fuel type, modifications to the propulsion system, and modifications to make vehicles disability-friendly, subject to the required approvals.

The Transport Commissioner has circulated the detailed order to Deputy Transport Commissioners, Regional Transport Officers and Sub-Regional Transport Officers.