Currently, for every 100 vehicles sold, at least 30 vehicles do not transfer their ownership. Many motorists are not aware of the need to change ownership. Come January, the Road Safety and Transport Authority (RSTA), and the traffic police will intensify checks and defaulters will be punished according to existing rules.
The need to transfer vehicle ownership is in line with the Road Safety and Transport Authority Regulation 1999. According to the regulation, the seller will have to transfer ownership to the buyer within a period of 15 days. While transferring ownership, a payment of five percent as property transfer tax is imposed on the sale value of the vehicle.
But, this has not been a widespread practice.
The Chief Transport Officer, Karma Pemba, says such negligence could create unnecessary problems. For instance, it could be possible that a vehicle could get caught in criminal activities and the actual owner dragged in. He also said during road accidents, it is difficult for the police to get in touch with the victims’ families.
Karma Pemba added that the strict implementation of rules would help the RSTA to keep track of records and trace those with outstanding dues.
The RSTA is also planning to send SMS alerts to remind the public to pay their taxes.
Meanwhile, along with the ownership transfer, vehicle owners were asked to update their vehicle documents and licenses by the 31st of this month.
Those failing to do so will be fined and the movement of such vehicles restricted.
More than 500 vehicles have had their ownerships transferred since October.
