25 Apr 2025
A Strategic Push Towards Safer Roads and Quality Mobility
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) is gearing up to introduce a safety assessment rating system for trucks and commercial vehicles, modeled on the Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (BNCAP). This move is designed to raise the standard of vehicle production while prioritising road safety and minimizing accidents. Alongside this, the ministry is actively working on safety protocols for battery-operated e-rickshaws to address existing concerns and generate employment.
These announcements were made during a two-day workshop on Vehicle and Fleet Safety organised by the Global New Car Assessment Programme (GNCAP) and the Institute of Road Traffic Education (IRTE). The event brought together global experts and Indian policymakers to focus on improving road safety in India and worldwide.
Key Highlights of the Safety Initiative
The government's latest efforts reflect a comprehensive strategy to upgrade commercial vehicle safety while ensuring better working conditions for drivers.
- Introduction of Safety Ratings: A new safety rating system for commercial vehicles is in development, mirroring the passenger car model used in BNCAP.
- Focus on Driver Welfare: Government plans to regulate truck drivers’ working hours, which currently extend to 13–14 hours a day.
- Infrastructure Support: 32 advanced driver training centres to be established across India to address driver shortages.
- Tech-Driven Safety: Air conditioning in truck cabins has been mandated, and Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) are being introduced to assist drivers.
- E-Rickshaw Safety Under Review: Special emphasis on standardising and securing e-rickshaws to ensure rider safety and improve employment opportunities.
Statements from Key Leaders
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, said, “The idea is to encourage manufacturers to improve the production quality, making vehicles more safe.”
President of IRTE, Dr. Rohit Baluja, commented, “The two-day workshop will review progress in vehicle safety worldwide and in India since 2000 and the priority actions needed to achieve further improvements by 2030 and beyond. The sessions will specifically examine G20 nations’ efforts, including India’s, towards implementing the Global Plan vehicle safety recommendations.”
Road Safety Challenges in India
India continues to face a major road safety crisis with 4.8 lakh accidents annually resulting in 1.8 lakh deaths. With road transport contributing to 12% of India's energy-related CO2 emissions, the government is taking multi-pronged steps to reduce fatalities, lower emissions, and ensure safer highways and cities.
Looking Ahead: The Broader Vision
The workshop also tied into broader climate and safety concerns. Discussions included India's position as home to several of the world's most polluted cities, and its efforts to align automotive safety with environmental sustainability goals.
With the upcoming ETAutoTech Summit 2025 and the ETAuto Hydrogen Tech Summit 2025, the dialogue on safety, emissions, and alternative energy will continue to guide the automotive future. These initiatives underscore the urgency of creating impactful regulations and technological solutions for a safer, greener tomorrow.
Outlook for India’s Transport Sector
This new focus on safety ratings, driver welfare, and electric vehicle regulation marks a significant shift in India’s approach to commercial transport. As the country navigates the twin challenges of road safety and environmental impact, these initiatives could pave the way for more resilient, efficient, and secure transportation systems.
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