Traffic Challan Alert: ₹5000 Fine If This Sticker Is Missing on Your Car – Drivers in Delhi, Beware!

Following traffic rules is extremely important in our country, but when it comes to the capital city, Delhi, these rules are enforced even more strictly. In such cases, ignoring traffic rules can cost you dearly. One such rule many are still unaware of involves the fuel sticker on vehicles. Did you know that if this sticker is missing from your vehicle, Delhi traffic police can issue you a challan of ₹5000? Let's understand what this sticker means and why it's important.

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What is the Fuel Sticker Rule?

The color-coded fuel sticker is an essential part of the traffic regulations in Delhi. It helps authorities quickly identify what kind of fuel a vehicle uses – petrol, diesel, or CNG. This regulation is aimed at reducing pollution and managing traffic in a more organized manner.

This rule was first introduced in 2012-2013 and was made mandatory in 2019 for all old and new vehicles. The government encourages all vehicle owners to apply these color stickers to ensure better road safety and smoother traffic operations.

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What Do the Different Colors Mean?

You might have noticed different color stickers on vehicles. Each color represents the type of fuel used in the car:

• Diesel vehicles – Orange sticker

• Petrol and CNG vehicles – Light Blue sticker

• Other types of vehicles – Grey sticker

These stickers are placed on the windshield of the vehicle and help officials immediately identify the fuel type without checking under the hood.

If you haven’t yet applied this fuel sticker on your vehicle, visit your nearest RTO office or apply online as soon as possible.

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Which Law Covers This Challan?

If a vehicle does not have the mandatory color-coded fuel sticker, the Motor Vehicle Act, Section 192(1), allows traffic police to issue a fine of up to ₹5000.

In 2020, the Delhi government conducted a special drive to penalize vehicles without High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) and color-coded fuel stickers. During this campaign, violators were issued challans of ₹5000 each.

This step aimed to raise public awareness about traffic rules and improve road safety in Delhi.

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Why is the Sticker Important?

There are several reasons why this rule is so important:

1. Pollution Control – During smog or high-pollution days, certain types of vehicles (especially diesel ones) may be restricted from entering Delhi. The sticker helps in quick identification.

2. Fuel-based Regulation – The Delhi government can regulate road usage based on the type of fuel to curb emissions.

3. Traffic Management – Authorities can ensure smoother functioning of traffic based on vehicle types and their environmental impact.

4. Public Safety – Promotes safe driving and ensures compliance with the latest vehicular norms.

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How to Apply for the Color-Coded Fuel Sticker?

You don’t need to visit any office. The process to apply for a fuel sticker is simple and can be completed online. Just follow these steps:

1. Visit the official portal:
   Go to https://bookmyhsrp.com

2. Enter your vehicle details:
   You will need to provide:

   • Vehicle registration number

   • Chassis number

   • Engine number

   • Fuel type

3. Choose the correct option:
   If your vehicle already has a high-security number plate and you only need the sticker, select the "Only Color Sticker" option.

   If your vehicle doesn’t have an HSRP either, then choose the "HSRP with Color Sticker" option.

4. Select your state and fill in details:

   • Choose your state

   • Input the captcha code

   • Submit the form

5. Make online payment:
   After entering the details, make the payment online.

6. Wait for delivery:
   Once the payment is complete, your sticker will be sent to your registered address within a few days.

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Who Should Be Most Careful?

• Old vehicle owners who haven't upgraded to the HSRP system.

• People buying used cars, as the stickers might be missing or outdated.

• Outstation vehicles entering Delhi regularly should also comply to avoid fines.

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Additional Points to Keep in Mind

• Vehicles registered before April 2019 are more likely to not have this sticker.

• The sticker must be placed clearly on the windshield, not anywhere else.

• This rule applies not just to private cars, but also to commercial vehicles, including taxis and delivery vans.

• These stickers are tamper-proof and come with QR codes, which can be scanned by authorities for verification.

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What Happens If You’re Caught Without It?

If your car is stopped during a routine traffic check and the fuel sticker is missing, the traffic police can issue you a challan of ₹5000 right on the spot. If your vehicle also lacks an HSRP number plate, you could end up paying double the fine.

Moreover, repeat offenders may be subjected to stricter penalties and even vehicle impounding in some cases.

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Public Response and Government Campaigns

After the 2020 campaign by the Delhi government, lakhs of vehicles were penalized for missing stickers or number plates. Since then, awareness has increased, but many car owners still remain unaware of this rule.

The government has been running advertisements, social media campaigns, and RTO drives to encourage people to comply with these regulations.

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Conclusion

If you're a car owner in Delhi or planning to drive through the city, make sure your vehicle has a color-coded fuel sticker. Ignorance of this rule could cost you ₹5000 or more. With the option to apply online from the comfort of your home, there's no excuse left.

Avoid the challan, stay informed, and drive responsibly. Following this one simple rule could save you money and help improve the environment too.