Govt Proposes Mandatory Location Tracking Devices for Haulage Tractors from October 2026

Key Highlights

• VLTD to be mandatory in haulage tractors from October 1, 2026.

• RFID tags required in trailers for automatic pairing.

• EDR to be compulsory from April 1, 2027.

• EDR will record critical operational vehicle data.

• 30 days given for public comments on the draft.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has announced a major safety initiative aimed at improving the monitoring and tracking of haulage tractors in India. According to a draft notification issued by the ministry, from October 1, 2026, it will be mandatory for all haulage tractors to be equipped with Vehicle Location Tracking Devices (VLTD).

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RFID-Enabled Tracking for Safer Driving

The proposed VLTDs will be compliant with AIS-140 standards and come with RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) transceivers. These RFID systems will allow seamless electronic connectivity between tractors and their trailers. This means the tracking device installed in the tractor will be able to read RFID tags fitted in trailers and transmit this data to a central backend system for real-time tracking.

As per the draft rules, all trailers will also need to have passive RFID tags, in compliance with IS 16722:2018, which enables electronic identification and automatic pairing with the tractor.

Event Data Recorder (EDR) Mandatory from April 2027

The ministry also plans to introduce another safety feature. Starting April 1, 2027, all haulage tractors must be equipped with an Event Data Recorder (EDR). This device will record and store vital vehicle operation data, which can be used to analyze incidents and improve road safety standards.

According to the draft, the EDR will capture parameters critical for analyzing operational events such as sudden braking, acceleration, and other performance-related metrics that can be useful for accident analysis and safety evaluations.

Public Feedback Invited

The government has opened the draft proposal for public comments for 30 days. This allows stakeholders, including manufacturers, transport operators, and safety experts, to provide feedback or suggest improvements before the rules are finalized.

Key Points

• Mandatory VLTD in haulage tractors from October 1, 2026.

• VLTD must have RFID transceiver for trailer pairing.

• Passive RFID tags required in trailers for electronic identification.

• Event Data Recorder (EDR) mandatory from April 1, 2027.

• EDR to record critical vehicle operation data for safety analysis.

• Public comments invited within 30 days of draft notification release.

These proposed rules are part of the government's ongoing efforts to enhance road safety, improve vehicle monitoring, and ensure safer transport practices across the country.

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CMV360 Says

The government’s proposal aims to improve road safety and transport efficiency by mandating VLTD and EDR in haulage tractors. These devices will enable real-time tracking, better trailer connectivity, and accurate data recording of critical events. With public feedback invited, the move reflects a strong push towards adopting advanced technology for safer and more accountable commercial vehicle operations in India.