Big Safety Boost for Trucks as Government Mandates Advanced Systems

In a landmark move to enhance road safety, the Government of India has announced that medium and heavy commercial vehicles must adopt advanced safety systems starting October 2027. The announcement was made by Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, in a written reply to the Lok Sabha on February 12, 2026.

The new regulations aim to reduce road accidents, protect drivers, and safeguard vulnerable road users across India.

Revised Braking Standards and Stability Control

From October 1, 2027, all trucks will be required to comply with the updated braking standard IS 11852:2019, previously applicable only to buses. This ensures stronger braking performance and safer stopping on Indian roads.

Additionally, Electronic Stability Control (AIS 162) will become compulsory. This system helps maintain vehicle stability during sudden braking or while negotiating curves. Advanced Emergency Braking Systems will also be required, automatically applying brakes in critical situations to prevent collisions or minimize crash impacts.

Mandatory Driver Assistance Technologies from 2028

Starting January 1, 2028, several driver assistance systems will be mandated for trucks, including:

• Blind Spot Information System (AIS 186): Alerts drivers about vehicles or pedestrians in blind zones.
• Moving Off Information System (AIS 187): Detects vulnerable road users near the vehicle when starting.
• Driver Drowsiness Detection and Alert System (AIS 184): Warns drivers showing signs of fatigue.
• Lane Departure Warning System (AIS 188): Notifies drivers if the vehicle unintentionally drifts out of its lane.

These systems are expected to significantly reduce accidents caused by blind spots, fatigue, and lane deviations.

Air-Conditioned Truck Cabins from 2025

To improve driver comfort and reduce fatigue, air-conditioned truck cabins have been mandated from October 1, 2025. This move is particularly aimed at easing long-distance operations in extreme weather conditions.

Existing Safety Norms Continue

Trucks in India are already required to comply with several safety features, such as cabin structural strength tests, reverse parking alert systems, reflective tapes, and under-run protective devices, ensuring visibility and crash protection.

Expansion of Driver Training Infrastructure

The government is strengthening driver training by expanding Institutes of Driving Training & Research (IDTRs), Regional Driving Training Centres (RDTCs), and Driving Training Centres (DTCs) with increased funding. The total investment includes ₹17.25 crore for IDTRs, ₹5.50 crore for RDTCs, and ₹2.50 crore for DTCs to promote safer driving practices nationwide.

Cashless Treatment for Road Accident Victims

The Cashless Treatment for Road Accident Victims Scheme, 2025, offers financial support of up to ₹1.5 lakh per victim for treatment up to seven days after accidents. Funding is provided via insurance companies for insured vehicles or through government allocations for uninsured cases.

A Strong Push Towards Safer Roads

With advanced braking systems, electronic stability control, modern driver monitoring technologies, improved training infrastructure, and financial protection for accident victims, the Indian government is taking a comprehensive approach to road safety. The phased implementation starting in 2027 marks a major step towards safer, technologically advanced commercial vehicles in India.