Online services in Bhubaneswar RTOs a massive failure! Brokers continue to exploit public

Despite the government’s claim of providing fully online and transparent services at Regional Transport Offices (RTOs), the ground reality suggests otherwise, with middlemen continuing to operate openly and exploit citizens, particularly in the state capital, Bhubaneswar.

Services such as issuance and renewal of driving licences, vehicle registration certificates, and permits are officially available online. The government has repeatedly claimed that the middleman system has been abolished to ensure direct access to services for the public. However, not all services are effectively accessible online, and agents continue to dominate the process at RTO offices.

Rs 1200 For Rs 200 Services

At the RTO-1 office in Bhubaneswar, agents are reportedly charging Rs 1,200 for driving licence renewal, even though the official fee is Rs 200. These activities are allegedly being carried out in broad daylight and in full public view. According to reports, hundreds of applicants are being overcharged every day.

The issue recently came to the fore after OTV conducted a sting operation, exposing the alleged irregularities and the continued presence of agents at the RTO premises.

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Sources said that one of the key reasons behind public dependence on agents is the lack of facilitation at RTO offices. There is no dedicated staff to assist applicants in filling out online forms, while the online kiosk systems inside the offices remain non-functional. Citizens also face difficulties in obtaining timely online approvals for mandatory procedures such as eye tests from authorised doctors.

“The focus should be on providing good service to the people affordably. May I Help You counters should be opened in all the RTOs. This apart, special counters should also open where people can pay both offline and online,” stated a common man.

Agents Taking Advantage

Taking advantage of these shortcomings, agents, allegedly in nexus with some unscrupulous staff, promise quick services in exchange for inflated fees. Road safety experts have warned that such practices not only encourage corruption but also undermine the purpose of digitisation.

Responding to the allegations, the Transport Minister said the matter would be reviewed and assured that strict steps would be taken to improve the system and curb illegal practices.

“All the services provided by RTO are completely digital now. We have received complaints from Jana Seva Kendras. They take charges, but charging high is not good. We have opened help desks in all the RTOs for this,” stated Transport Minister Bibhuti Jena.