Sindh Govt to Enforce Biometric Verification for Vehicle Registration

The Sindh government has announced a significant change in the registration and transfer of vehicles, making biometric verification mandatory across the province. This landmark initiative, aimed at curbing illegal transfers and improving transparency, was unveiled by Sindh Excise and Taxation Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon.

The new policy will be implemented in a phased manner to ensure a smooth transition and greater compliance.

Phased Implementation of Biometric Verification: Key Dates

The policy’s rollout will happen in three distinct phases, each catering to different aspects of vehicle registration and transfer.

Phase 1: Biometric Verification for New Vehicle Registrations (Effective July 1st)
From July 1st, all new vehicles in Sindh will require biometric verification at the time of registration. This ensures that the original buyer’s identity is verified, creating a secure link between the vehicle and its owner.
Phase 2: Verification for Vehicle Purchasers (Effective November 1st)
Starting November 1st, biometric verification will also be required for those purchasing vehicles. This means that buyers will need to go through a verification process to confirm their identity before acquiring ownership of a vehicle.
Phase 3: Biometric for Both Buyers and Sellers
The final phase will make biometric verification mandatory for both buyers and sellers, creating a dual-layer of security in vehicle transfers. By verifying both parties, this phase ensures that all transactions are conducted transparently and without the risk of fraud.

Minister Memon emphasized that this new system is not just a technological upgrade but a comprehensive step towards enhancing transparency within the Excise Department. He mentioned, “This is just the beginning,” hinting at future reforms aimed at modernizing the system further.

Biometric Verification: A Step Towards Curbing Fraud and Illegal Transfers

The Sindh government’s decision to implement biometric verification is rooted in the need to prevent illegal vehicle transfers and fraud. Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon highlighted the importance of this verification process as a key milestone in promoting transparency and accountability.

Memon elaborated that biometric verification will not only reduce fraudulent activity but will also make it more difficult for individuals to engage in illegal transfers of vehicles. This move is expected to safeguard the interests of genuine vehicle buyers and sellers by ensuring that ownership transfers are recorded accurately and transparently.

Where to Get Biometric Verification Done?

Citizens can complete their biometric verification at NADRA e-facilitation centers or their respective district excise offices. This flexibility aims to make the process more accessible and convenient for the general public.

Minister’s Efforts to Modernize the Excise Department

Since taking office, Sharjeel Inam Memon has been actively involved in modernizing the Sindh Excise and Taxation Department. In August, Memon took significant steps to streamline the department’s operations, particularly focusing on vehicle registration processes.

One such initiative included directives for facilitating vehicle registration directly at showrooms. This change was made to reduce the hassle for citizens, ensuring that new vehicle owners can complete their registration conveniently at the point of purchase.

Premium Number Plates: A Fundraising Initiative for Flood Victims

Another key announcement from Minister Memon is the upcoming second phase of issuing premium number plates. In a recent meeting, it was decided that 50 premium numbers would be issued as part of a fundraising event to support flood victims in Sindh.

This initiative, which will see the launch of premium number plates soon, is part of a broader effort to raise funds for those affected by natural disasters while offering citizens an opportunity to acquire exclusive registration numbers.

The first phase of premium plate issuance had already been successful, and the second phase is anticipated to generate significant interest among vehicle owners.

Implications for Vehicle Owners in Sindh

For vehicle owners in Sindh, these changes mark a significant shift in how vehicle registration and transfer processes will work moving forward. With the introduction of biometric verification, both new and existing vehicle owners will be required to comply with the new system, ensuring that all vehicle-related transactions are conducted with a high level of security and transparency.

Citizens should stay informed about the timelines for each phase and ensure that they complete their biometric verification as required.

The introduction of biometric verification for vehicle registration and transfer is a critical step towards promoting transparency and reducing fraud in Sindh’s vehicle market. Under the leadership of Sharjeel Inam Memon, the Sindh Excise and Taxation Department is set to become more efficient and accountable, benefiting both vehicle buyers and sellers.

This policy not only aims to streamline vehicle transactions but also sets a precedent for other provinces in Pakistan to adopt similar measures in the future. By making biometric verification mandatory, Sindh is leading the way in ensuring a more secure and transparent vehicle registration system.

FAQs

1. What is the purpose of biometric verification for vehicle registration in Sindh?
The purpose of biometric verification is to enhance transparency in vehicle registration and transfers, reduce the possibility of fraud, and ensure that only genuine buyers and sellers complete transactions.

2. When will biometric verification be required for vehicle registration in Sindh?
Biometric verification for new vehicle registrations will be required from July 1st. It will also be mandatory for vehicle purchasers from November 1st, and eventually for both buyers and sellers in the final phase.

3. Where can I get my biometric verification done for vehicle registration?
Citizens can complete their biometric verification at NADRA e-facilitation centers or their respective district excise offices.

4. What other reforms has the Sindh government introduced in vehicle registration?
In addition to biometric verification, the Sindh government has also introduced measures such as vehicle registration at showrooms for customer convenience and the issuance of premium number plates to raise funds for flood victims.

5. How will biometric verification prevent fraud in vehicle transactions?
Biometric verification ensures that the identities of both the buyer and seller are verified through a secure process, making it difficult for fraudulent activities like illegal transfers to take place.

6. What are premium number plates, and how can I get one?
Premium number plates are exclusive registration numbers offered by the Sindh government. The second phase of issuance, which includes 50 premium numbers, will be launched as part of a fundraising event for flood victims.