February 10, 2025: The Assam government has introduced a one-time settlement (OTS) scheme under the Assam Vehicle Scrapping Policy 2022, allowing vehicle owners to deregister their unfit vehicles by paying just 25% of outstanding taxes and dues. This initiative aims to remove unfit and environmentally hazardous vehicles from the roads while providing financial relief to owners.

Vehicle owners who voluntarily opt for deregistration under this scheme will receive a tax waiver of up to 75%. Gautam Das, Special Duty Officer of the Assam Transport Department, urged owners to take advantage of this opportunity before the deadline of March 31, 2025. He emphasized that deregistering unfit vehicles would contribute to safer and cleaner transportation in the state.

According to motor vehicle laws, once a vehicle reaches the end of its lifespan and becomes unfit for use, its registration must be canceled at the district transport office's registration department. If this is not done properly, the vehicle remains active in the government's VAHAN portal, causing taxes and penalties to accumulate over time, creating financial burdens for the owners.

To further incentivize vehicle owners, the transport department announced that those who submit a deregistration certificate at a Registered Vehicle Scrappage Facility (RVSF) and apply for scrapping will receive a Certificate of Deposit. This certificate entitles them to tax concessions when purchasing a new vehicle—25% for private vehicles for up to 15 years and 15% for commercial vehicles for up to 8 years.

The Assam government is actively encouraging vehicle owners to take part in this scheme and ensure compliance with environmental and transport regulations.