The West Bengal government has pledged stricter enforcement of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR) and a crackdown on illegal Multi-Brand Outlet (MBO) vehicle operations, signalling a major regulatory push aimed at strengthening the state’s automobile retail ecosystem. The commitment was announced by Transport Minister Arjun Singh during a fire-side chat organised by the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) in Kolkata.
The event, held at ITC Royal Bengal, brought together more than 150 automobile dealer principals from across West Bengal, members of the FADA Central Team and senior industry stakeholders. Addressing the gathering, Singh said the state is committed to building a transparent, technology-driven and citizen-centric transport ecosystem through digitalisation, online services and automation. “We are committed to the full enforcement of CMVR regulations and taking decisive action against illegal Multi-Brand Outlet (MBO) operations across West Bengal,” he said, adding that closer collaboration with FADA would help create a more efficient and future-ready transport environment.
During the interaction, FADA highlighted key industry concerns, including effective implementation of CMVR, the spread of illegal MBO vehicle trade, introduction of pre-owned vehicle registration and an entirely online five-year trade certificate framework. Welcoming the government’s response, FADA Vice President Sai Giridhar said the Minister’s assurance on implementing CMVR rules and abolishing illegal MBO operations would improve regulatory compliance and create a fair business environment. He added that FADA has also sought the introduction of pre-owned vehicle registration and a fully digital five-year trade certificate system to enhance customer convenience and ease of doing business.
FADA said the proposed measures would promote fair competition, improve compliance and strengthen the automotive retail sector across the state. The event concluded with both the Transport Department and the industry body reaffirming their commitment to continued dialogue on road safety, digital governance and sustainable growth.
In Siliguri, the regulatory reforms are expected to have a positive impact on the city’s automobile retail industry, which serves as the commercial gateway to North Bengal and neighbouring states. Greater enforcement against illegal vehicle outlets and faster digital transport services could improve customer confidence, strengthen authorised dealerships and support higher vehicle sales, while creating a more transparent and competitive business environment for the region’s automotive market.
