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India to Mandate Vehicle-to-Vehicle Communication Devices
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced that India will soon mandate the installation of vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication devices in all new cars. The move aims to facilitate real-time information sharing between vehicles to prevent accidents and reduce fatalities.
Technology and Spectrum Allocation
On-board units will be installed for wireless data exchange. The Department of Telecommunication has approved the use of 30 MHz of spectrum for this critical V2V communication. This technology is designed to warn drivers of impending crashes and detect vehicles in blind spots, significantly improving driver awareness.
Ambitious Safety Goals
The government has set an ambitious target of cutting road fatalities by half by 2030. This initiative is a key part of a broader effort to improve road safety, following over five lakh accidents and 1.8 lakh deaths reported in 2023 alone.
Regulatory Overhaul
The announcement followed a two-day meeting with state transport ministers. Proposed amendments to the Motor Vehicle Act, expected in the upcoming Parliament session, will also focus on improving business ease, mobility, and emission standards, aligning them with global norms. The ministry is also enhancing safety for bus travel after recent fatal incidents.
Zero Fatalities Programme
A targeted 'zero fatalities district programme' is identifying and intervening in the 100 districts with the highest road death tolls. These interventions aim to bring specific, high-impact changes to reduce casualties on Indian roads.