Hyderabad: The Vahan portal launch in Telangana marked a major step toward digital transformation in transport services, with the government enabling online access and easing vehicle-related processes.
Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar inaugurated the national-level portal at Begumpet on Monday. He said the initiative would bring efficiency and transparency to the transport department.
During the event, the minister also announced the removal of the 2% additional lifetime tax on second and subsequent personal vehicles. This decision, he said, would provide relief to middle-class families and encourage vehicle ownership.
Vahan portal launch improves digital access
The Vahan portal launch integrates Telangana’s transport database with the national system, creating a unified platform for vehicle-related services. The minister noted that the long-pending Vahan-Sarathi integration was completed within a year.
As a result, services such as vehicle registration, ownership transfer, and tax payments will become faster and more transparent. Moreover, the system reduces manual intervention and minimises delays.
He pointed out that around 1,500 new vehicles are added daily in the state. Therefore, digital systems like this are essential to manage the increasing workload efficiently.
Importantly, the portal allows vehicle registration directly at dealerships. This means citizens no longer need to visit RTO offices for basic services, saving both time and effort.
Policy reforms linked to digital push
The Vahan portal launch also aligns with broader transport reforms introduced by the government. Earlier, authorities removed 15 check posts to simplify operations and reduce bottlenecks.
In addition, the state rolled out electric vehicle and vehicle scrappage policies to modernise the sector. The minister said Telangana aims to emerge as a leading EV-focused state.
He further announced that all future government vehicle purchases would be electric. Meanwhile, steps are being taken to retrofit diesel autos in Hyderabad to reduce pollution.
Additionally, vehicle dealers have been directed to provide helmets with every sale. They are also encouraged to give a sapling to buyers to promote environmental awareness.
Senior officials, including Vikas Raj and Ilambarthi, attended the launch event.
