Punjab RTO services become completely faceless, bringing major relief to citizens
Chandigarh(The Uttam Hindu): Punjab has made all Transport Department services fully faceless, ending the need for people to visit RTO offices. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann inaugurated the new system by symbolically locking the transport office. Aam Aadmi Party convener and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was also present at the event. He said that citizens will no longer have to visit RTO offices for any service, as the entire process has shifted online.
Chief Minister Mann stated that services such as vehicle registration, driving licences, permits and transfers will now be provided online. He said the new system will eliminate middlemen, increase transparency and offer greater convenience to the public. He also assured that no employee will lose their job due to the transition; all staff members will be given new responsibilities within the system.
CM Mann added that the government aims to free people from the hassle of running from office to office. He said that only those unable to fill out online applications should visit a Seva Kendra, where help desks will be available to provide guidance on forms and required documents. Applicants can then submit their forms along with documents at the counter.
Earlier, citizens had to rely on cyber cafes or visit RTO offices multiple times for verification after submitting online applications for driving licences or vehicle registrations. This process was especially difficult for people in remote areas, senior citizens and persons with disabilities. It consumed time, effort and money.
With the new faceless system, people no longer need to visit RTO offices. Services will now be provided through Seva Kendras set up across Punjab, where trained staff will assist applicants. Chief Minister Mann said that Punjab has become the first state in the country to close RTO offices and still ensure smooth delivery of services.
He said that the goal of this initiative is to make government processes simple and accessible, ensuring citizens do not have to run from office to office for basic services. The new system will allow RTO offices to focus on core functions and improve overall departmental efficiency. Chief Minister Mann reiterated that the government is committed to providing smooth, transparent and people-friendly governance. (Advertorial)