The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has announced amendments to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989 on August 14th 2024. These changes introduce updated standards for safety belts and restraint systems in vehicles.
Overview of the Amendments
The newly introduced rules, known as the Central Motor Vehicles (Tenth Amendment) Rules, 2024, focus primarily on enhancing safety features in vehicles. The amendments are designed to ensure that all new vehicles meet stringent safety standards for safety belts and restraint systems. The updated regulations will be implemented in phases, starting from April 2025.
Key Changes in Safety Belt Regulations:
1. Safety Belt Standards for Different Vehicle Categories:
a) For Vehicles of Categories M1 and L7:
M1 vehicles refer to passenger cars designed to carry up to eight passengers, excluding the driver.
L7 vehicles are quadricycles used for passenger or cargo transport.
For these vehicles manufactured on or after April 1, 2025, the safety belt assemblies and anchorages must conform to the standards set by IS 15140:2018 and IS 15139:2002.
Additionally, the installation of safety belts and restraint systems must comply with IS 16694:2018
b) For Vehicles of Categories M2, M3, and N:
M2 and M3 refer to buses and coaches, while N vehicles include trucks and other heavy goods vehicles.
For these categories, the compliance with IS 15140:2018 and IS 15139:2002 standards will be mandatory for vehicles manufactured from April 1, 2026.
The installation standards will also follow IS 16694:2018.
2. Updated Specifications and Standards:
The rules now stipulate that safety belt assemblies and anchorages in M1 vehicles must adhere to the IS 15140:2018 and IS 15139:2002 standards starting April 1, 2025.
The installation of safety belts and restraint systems in these vehicles must conform to IS 16694:2018.
The previous standard AIS-145-2017 will be replaced with AIS-145-2018 in the relevant regulations. This update affects the specifications for safety belt reminders and other related components.
3. Safety Belt Reminder Systems:
From April 1, 2025, all M1 category vehicles will be required to have a safety belt reminder system for all front-facing rear seats. This measure is intended to ensure that all passengers use their seat belts, enhancing overall vehicle safety.
Why These Changes Matter
These amendments are part of a broader effort to improve road safety and reduce accidents caused by inadequate safety measures. By aligning with updated Indian Standards (IS) and Automotive Industry Standards (AIS), the rules aim to provide better protection for vehicle occupants.
For Vehicle Manufacturers:
Manufacturers need to ensure that their new models meet these updated standards.They must integrate the new safety belt assemblies and systems into their production processes to comply with the new regulations.
For Vehicle Owners:
If you’re purchasing a new vehicle, be aware of these standards and ensure your vehicle meets the required safety specifications.For existing vehicles, while these changes primarily affect new models, staying informed about safety standards is crucial for maintaining vehicle safety and compliance.
Implementation and Compliance
The amendments will come into force on August 14th 2024, with phased implementation starting from April 2025. Vehicle manufacturers and industry stakeholders are encouraged to prepare for these changes to ensure a smooth transition and compliance with the new regulations.
Conclusion
The Central Motor Vehicles (Tenth Amendment) Rules, 2024, represent a significant step towards enhancing vehicle safety in India. By enforcing higher standards for safety belts and restraint systems, the government aims to safeguard passengers and reduce road traffic injuries. Staying updated with these changes and understanding their impact will help ensure that both vehicle manufacturers and owners are prepared for a safer future on the road.
