Revolutionizing Road Safety: India’s MoRTH Mandates ADAS in Passenger Vehicles by 2026
By Sandeep Budki
India Takes Bold Steps Toward Safer Roads
In a bid to address its persistent road safety issues, India is embracing technology with a significant regulatory update. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has announced that all new passenger vehicles designed to carry more than eight people must be equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) starting in April 2026. This marks a groundbreaking shift in how the country approaches vehicular safety and emphasizes the critical role that technology plays in protecting lives on the roads.
Essential Technology Requirements Under New Regulations
As per the draft notification released earlier this year, vehicles are required to include crucial features such as Advanced Emergency Braking Systems (AEBS), Driver Drowsiness and Attention Warning Systems (DDAWS), and Lane Departure Warning Systems (LDWS). Existing vehicle models must comply by October 2026. In a further advancement, MoRTH has also recommended updates to the Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR) to incorporate blind spot monitoring systems for trucks and buses, amplifying efforts to enhance safety on Indian roads.
AI-Powered Monitoring: A Shift in Safety Strategy
Even before these regulations come into effect, various businesses and automakers in India are already integrating AI-driven monitoring technologies. One notable example is Netradyne with its cutting-edge Driver•i platform, which utilizes computer vision and edge computing to monitor driving behaviour in real-time. According to Durgadutt Nedungadi, Senior VP—EMEA & APAC at Netradyne, “We’ve redefined fleet safety by moving from reactive monitoring to proactive, AI-powered intervention.”
Real-Time Analysis for Risk Detection
The advanced technology employed by Netradyne includes high-definition cameras and sophisticated algorithms that analyze a driver’s performance on the road. “The system identifies risky behaviours—such as fatigue, distraction, and speeding—as they occur, delivering in-cab alerts to the driver,” explains Nedungadi. Alarmingly, recent data indicates that 32% of drivers face distractions daily, often due to phone use or multitasking, while fatigue and tailgating become more prevalent during long journeys.
Innovative Features Enhancing Safety and Compliance
A unique attribute of Netradyne’s offering is the GreenZone Driver Scoring System, which evaluates both risky behaviours and safe driving habits. Furthermore, the introduction of an AI-based Safety Manager Assistant allows fleet managers to query data using natural language, facilitating a more intuitive approach to safety management. “This collaboration between humans and AI is indeed the future of fleet safety,” added Nedungadi.
Nestlé India: Leading the Charge in Technology Adoption
Nestlé India is at the forefront of leveraging logistics technology for enhanced safety. The company is piloting AI-powered dashcams and telematics systems across its dedicated fleets. A spokesperson for Nestlé mentioned, “All our fleets are currently equipped with AI dash cameras and ADAS, and we plan to incorporate these into our hired fleets as well. These systems not only alert drivers to unsafe behaviours but also enable two-way communication and real-time video streaming.”
Using Predictive Analytics to Improve Driving Habits
In addition to basic monitoring, Nestlé employs predictive analytics tools to coach drivers on safer practices. “Our dashcams provide alerts aimed at preventing accidents, and the predictive analytics framework generates driver behaviour scores for counselling,” the spokesperson highlighted. The company’s “Track and Trace” tool supplies real-time weather and route updates, providing drivers with vital information to enhance their safety on the road.
Tailored Solutions for India’s Unique Driving Conditions
Nestlé has also tailored its technology solutions to cater specifically to the Indian context. The “Humsafer” app from GoodMind generates driver scorecards linked to the company’s rewards programme. Additionally, partnerships with NGOs, such as the Eicher Foundation and Sightsavers India, facilitate initiatives like eye testing camps and financial literacy enhancements aimed at supporting driver well-being.
Luxury Meets Safety: Mercedes-Benz Embraces ADAS Technology
Luxury automaker Mercedes-Benz India has recognized the imperative of integrating ADAS and AI technologies into their vehicles. “Our focus is on adopting a human-centric approach that enriches the driving experience instead of imposing intrusive surveillance,” stated Santosh Iyer, MD & CEO. He emphasizes that Mercedes-Benz’s ADAS features are designed to be intuitive, respectful of driver autonomy, and ultimately empowering.
An Evolving Road Safety Landscape
As India’s road safety landscape transforms, Iyer predicts that these technologies will become ubiquitous. “Considering the complex driving conditions found throughout India, AI-powered monitoring solutions will soon be essential across all vehicle types,” he affirmed.
The Role of Government Regulations in Safety Enhancements
The proactive approach taken by MoRTH to legislate the mandatory inclusion of ADAS systems will significantly impact road safety culture in India. By setting a firm deadline for compliance, the government aims to incentivize automotive manufacturers and transport companies to prioritize safety through technology.
Corporate Responsibility in Road Safety Initiatives
Companies like Netradyne and Nestlé showcase a growing awareness of corporate responsibility in improving road safety. These businesses are not only complying with upcoming regulations but are actively investing in innovative technologies that can prevent accidents and enhance overall safety.
Raising Awareness and Training for Drivers
To fully realize the potential of these technologies, it’s essential to focus on education and training for drivers. Informing drivers about the features available in their vehicles and how to utilize them effectively can significantly reduce accident rates. Initiatives like workshops and training sessions can play a crucial role in this educational effort.
Public and Private Sector Collaboration
Emphasizing the collaboration between public and private sectors will be pivotal in achieving long-lasting improvements in road safety. Partnerships between governmental agencies, automotive manufacturers, and technology firms can foster innovation and lead to the development of comprehensive safety ecosystems.
The Future of Road Safety: A Tech-Driven Paradigm
As India embraces this new tech-driven paradigm for road safety, the collaboration between various stakeholders will play a vital role in ensuring successful implementation. The integration of advanced technologies in transportation systems will ensure that safety is prioritized across all levels.
Conclusion: A Safer Future on the Roads
In conclusion, the mandate for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems in new passenger vehicles by 2026 marks a significant milestone in India’s quest for safer roads. With companies like Netradyne and Nestlé at the forefront of innovation, alongside the regulatory backing from MoRTH, the future of road safety looks promising. As these technologies evolve, we can expect a notable decrease in accidents and fatalities, ensuring that both passengers and drivers can travel with greater peace of mind.
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