By Recent data reveals a concerning trend in India’s automotive landscape: vehicle thefts have doubled within a year, with cities like Delhi, Chennai, and Bengaluru particularly affected.
Delhi Leads the Pack
According to the ‘Theft & the City’ report by Acko General Insurance, Delhi maintains its position as the epicenter of vehicle thefts in India. In 2023, the country witnessed a staggering 2.5 times increase in vehicle thefts compared to the previous year, with a striking 80% of car thefts occurring in New Delhi alone.
Shifts in Theft Hotspots
While Delhi’s share in overall vehicle thefts decreased from 56% in 2022 to 37% in 2023, other cities experienced significant rises. Chennai and Bengaluru saw notable surges, jumping from 5% to 10.5% and 9% to 10.2%, respectively.
Parking Woes Amplify Theft Risks
One of the primary contributors to Delhi’s status as the vehicle theft capital is the acute shortage of parking space. Data from Delhi Police in 2023 highlighted a concerning increase in disputes over parking on neighborhood roads.
Maruti Suzuki Dominates
The report underscores Maruti Suzuki’s dominance in stolen vehicle statistics, with 47% of all stolen cars belonging to this brand. High demand for Maruti vehicles, leading to longer delivery times, makes them lucrative targets for thieves.
Exploitation of Technology
As cars become more technologically advanced, thieves adapt their methods accordingly. Modern vehicles’ keyless entry systems, reliant on barcodes in windshields, are exploited by thieves who can scan and share these codes to gain unauthorized access to vehicles.
Surge in Bike Thefts
Interestingly, 2023 witnessed a significant increase in bike thefts, outpacing car thefts by a factor of 9.25x. Popular models like the Hero Splendor and Honda Activa topped the list of stolen bikes, indicating a shift in thieves’ preferences.
Response to Theft Incidents
In the unfortunate event of a vehicle theft, prompt reporting to both the police and the insurance company is crucial. Essential documents, including FIR copy, vehicle registration, and driver’s license, must be submitted to the insurer for processing the claim.
If the vehicle remains untraceable within the specified timeframe, the police will issue a non-traceable certificate, enabling the insurance company to settle the claim according to policy terms and conditions. Vigilance and quick action are essential in mitigating the impact of vehicle thefts.
