The government is exploring a mandate for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) aimed at improving safety in heavy commercial vehicles. These systems include features like electronic stability control, automated emergency braking, and driver drowsiness detection, specifically targeting new heavy trucks and buses.
At a recent press conference following the Transport Development Council meeting in Delhi, Nitin Gadkari, the Minister of Road Transport and Highways, emphasized that these technologies have the potential to significantly reduce the incidence of severe accidents. While the government has committed to integrating these safety features into new vehicles, the specific timeline for implementation remains undecided.
Heavy trucks and buses are major contributors to road accidents, responsible for a considerable number of fatalities and injuries annually. Electronic stability control reduces the risk of rollovers and collisions by monitoring vehicle traction and correcting skidding where necessary. Meanwhile, automated emergency braking helps to prevent rear-end collisions by detecting obstacles and automatically applying brakes if the driver fails to respond in time.
Furthermore, driver fatigue is a significant factor in many road accidents involving long-haul drivers. The driver drowsiness detection system monitors indicators like eye movement and steering patterns, alerting drivers with an audible warning when signs of fatigue are detected.
When inquired about the potential costs associated with equipping new vehicles with these advanced safety systems, the minister underscored that ensuring safety should take precedence over financial considerations.
In addition, the government is set to introduce a safety star rating system for e-rickshaws. Gadkari pointed out that when e-rickshaws were initially launched, rigorous safety standards were not enforced due to cost factors. However, the government has now resolved to implement star ratings to uphold safety standards, similar to those applied to four-wheel vehicles. A dedicated technical committee has been formed to develop the guidelines for these new safety ratings.
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