Big Safety Boost for Trucks! Government Makes High-Tech Safety Systems Mandatory from 2027

Key Highlights

• Advanced safety systems will be mandatory from October 2027.

• Blind spot, drowsiness & lane warning systems from 2028.

• Air-conditioned truck cabins from October 2025.

• Stronger braking and electronic stability control are required.

• ₹1.5 lakh cashless treatment for accident victims.

In a major step to improve road safety, the Government of India has announced new safety regulations for medium and heavy commercial vehicles. The decision was shared by Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari in a written reply to the Lok Sabha on February 12, 2026.

The new rules will introduce advanced driver assistance systems and upgraded safety technologies in a phased manner starting from October 2027. These measures aim to reduce road accidents, improve driver safety, and protect vulnerable road users across the country.

Revised Braking Standards from October 2027

A major update under the new rules is the implementation of the revised braking standard IS 11852: 2019. This standard will become mandatory for trucks from October 1, 2027. Earlier, this requirement applied only to buses manufactured by Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).

With this change, heavy commercial vehicles will undergo improved brake performance evaluation, ensuring better stopping power and safer operation on Indian roads.

Along with this, Electronic Stability Control (AIS 162) will also be compulsory from October 1, 2027. This system helps maintain vehicle stability during sudden braking or while driving on curves.

Another important feature is the Advanced Emergency Braking System, which will automatically apply brakes if the driver does not respond during a critical situation. This technology can help avoid collisions or reduce the impact of crashes.

Mandatory Driver Assistance Systems from January 2028

From January 1, 2028, several advanced driver assistance technologies will be compulsory in trucks:

• Blind Spot Information System (AIS 186) to alert drivers about vehicles or pedestrians in blind areas.

• Moving Off Information System (AIS 187) to detect vulnerable road users near the vehicle when starting from a stationary position.

• Driver Drowsiness Detection and Alert System (AIS 184) to warn drivers showing signs of fatigue.

• Lane Departure Warning System (AIS 188) to notify drivers if the vehicle unintentionally drifts out of its lane.

These systems are designed to reduce accidents caused by blind spots, driver fatigue, and unintended lane changes.

Air-Conditioned Truck Cabins from 2025

To reduce driver fatigue and improve working conditions, the government has already mandated air-conditioning in truck cabins from October 1, 2025. This move is expected to enhance driver comfort, especially during long-distance operations in extreme weather conditions.

Existing Safety Norms Already in Force

Several safety features are already mandatory for goods vehicles in India. These include:

• Cabin structural strength tests

• Reverse parking alert systems (for vehicles manufactured since April 1, 2020)

• Reflective tapes

• Rear under-run protective devices

• Lateral under-run protective devices

These requirements ensure better visibility, crash protection, and overall safety compliance.

Expansion of Driver Training Infrastructure

To strengthen driver skills and safety awareness, the government is expanding its network of training institutes across the country. Financial assistance has been increased under the scheme for:

• Institutes of Driving Training & Research (IDTRs) – ₹17.25 crore

• Regional Driving Training Centres (RDTCs) – ₹5.50 crore

• Driving Training Centres (DTCs) – ₹2.50 crore

This investment aims to improve professional driver training and promote safer driving practices nationwide.

Cashless Treatment for Road Accident Victims

The Cashless Treatment for Road Accident Victims Scheme, 2025, notified in May 2025, provides financial relief to accident victims.

Under this scheme:

• Treatment coverage up to ₹1.5 lakh per victim

• Coverage for up to seven days after the accident

• Stabilization treatment for 24 hours in non-life-threatening cases

• Stabilization treatment for 48 hours in critical cases

• Services available at designated hospitals

The scheme is funded through the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund. For insured vehicles, funding comes from general insurance companies. In uninsured cases, financial support is provided through budgetary allocation.

Strong Push Towards Safer Roads

With the introduction of advanced braking systems, electronic stability control, driver monitoring technologies, improved training infrastructure, and financial protection for accident victims, the government is taking a comprehensive approach to road safety.

The phased implementation starting from October 2027 marks a significant step towards reducing road accidents and making India’s heavy commercial vehicle segment safer and more technologically advanced.

Also Read: Can Switch Mobility Build a Strong Moat in India’s Competitive E-Bus Market?

CMV360 Says

The government’s new safety regulations mark a major shift in India’s commercial vehicle sector. By mandating advanced braking systems, electronic stability control, driver assistance technologies, improved driver training, and financial protection for accident victims, the initiative aims to significantly reduce road accidents. With phased implementation from 2027, these reforms will improve vehicle safety standards, enhance driver comfort, and create a more secure road environment across the country.