Vehicle Modifications Under Scrutiny; Remove Unauthorized Speaker Systems or Face Seizure, Warns Transport Minister

Thiruvananthapuram: During the election campaign, the UDF had promised relief for vehicle owners who had modified their vehicles. However, the government has now warned that those misusing the relaxations being granted for modifications will face strict action, including seizure of their vehicles, Transport Minister C P John said.

The minister specifically warned owners of vehicles fitted with oversized speakers to remove them immediately, saying such vehicles could be seized at any time. He added that the government would address other types of vehicle modifications at a later stage.

Earlier, C P John had clarified that vehicle modifications would be permitted only under specific conditions. Modifications that compromise safety or increase noise or lighting beyond permissible limits will not be allowed. He also noted that the implementation of vehicle modification rules is governed by central legislation. Discussions are currently underway on allowing certain changes, including adherence to prescribed colour codes and external fittings that do not protrude beyond the vehicle's body.

Vehicle modification was one of the key promises made by Chief Minister V D Satheesan to Gen Z voters during the election campaign. However, within just two months of the UDF government assuming office, vehicle owners who had carried out modifications have begun facing enforcement action.