Union Government to Install Onboard Weighing Devices in Trucks to Address Overloading

Key Highlights:

• The government plans to install onboard weighing devices in medium and heavy trucks.
• Overloading causes many accidents, with 12,000 deaths in 2023.
• The devices will show the exact load on the truck's dashboard.
• This will help enforce the Motor Vehicle Act, which bans overloaded trucks.
• Law enforcement can easily check the load and prevent manipulation.

The union government has announced plans to install onboard weighing devices in all medium and heavy commercial vehicles (MHCVs) to tackle the growing problem of overloaded trucks, which pose a serious risk to highway safety. This initiative is set to play a crucial role in ensuring safer and more regulated road transport across India.

Overloading and the Law

In 2019, the Motor Vehicle Act was amended to make it clear that overloaded vehicles are not allowed to operate on Indian roads until the excess load is removed. 

However, despite the law, enforcement has been challenging due to a lack of awareness and proper monitoring of weight limits. Many drivers and fleet operators remain unaware of the specific weight their vehicles are allowed to carry.

Why Is This Necessary?

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways made this announcement in the Lok Sabha last week. One of the primary reasons for frequent road accidents and fatalities, especially on highways, is the issue of overloading in commercial vehicles. 

Overloaded trucks have been identified as a major safety concern, contributing to a significant number of accidents each year. In 2023 alone, approximately 12,000 lives were lost due to road crashes, many of which involved overloaded vehicles.

How Will the Onboard Weighing Device Work?

The government’s plan involves installing a sensor-equipped device in trucks, which will automatically measure and display the exact load on the dashboard. This onboard weighing device will help fleet operators and truck owners monitor the weight of their cargo, ensuring it stays within permissible limits. The technology is still under development, with several commercial vehicle manufacturers currently working on its accuracy and reliability.

Benefits of the New Onboard Weighing Device

With the installation of this device, law enforcement agencies will be able to more easily monitor and enforce the overloading provisions of the Motor Vehicle Act. The device will display the weight of the vehicle’s load on the dashboard, allowing officers to quickly compare it with the weight mentioned on the truck’s registration certificate.

This makes it much harder to manipulate the weight readings, ensuring that only properly loaded trucks are allowed on the roads.

Also Read: Tata Motors to Increase Commercial Vehicle Prices in January 2025

CMV360 Says

The government's decision to install onboard weighing devices in trucks is a great step toward safer roads. Overloaded trucks have been a major cause of accidents, and this technology will ensure vehicles carry only the permitted load. It will make it easier for authorities to enforce the rules, reducing the risk of accidents and improving road safety. This is a practical solution that will benefit everyone on the road.