The Indian government has taken a significant step toward making public transportation more accessible for all citizens. Starting from October 2026, every new intra-city public bus manufactured across the country will feature a low-floor design. This move aims to address long-standing challenges faced by passengers, particularly those with mobility issues.
New Standards for Bus Manufacturing
According to a draft notification issued this week, all new bus models manufactured on or after April 1, 2026, must comply with specific requirements. Existing models will need to meet these standards from October 1, 2026. The notification mandates that these buses conform to Automotive Industry Standard (AIS-216), which provides detailed guidelines for bus body design and testing.
Key Specifications for Future Buses
The proposed regulations specify that all new buses with a length of nine meters or more must have a floor height of 400 millimeters. This represents a ground clearance of 440 millimeters, making boarding and alighting much easier for passengers. The ministry believes this change will transform the daily commute experience for millions of Indians.
An official familiar with the matter explained the reasoning behind this decision. "The ecosystem is already in place for implementing this norm," the official stated. "Manufacturers are already producing such buses, so this transition should be smooth."
Addressing Current Challenges
Most city buses operating across India today present numerous difficulties for passengers. High steps, narrow aisles, poor handholds, and cramped seating make boarding particularly challenging for certain groups. Elderly citizens, women, children, and persons with disabilities often struggle with current bus designs.
While some cities already operate low-floor buses, many continue to use high-floor or semi-low-floor models. These older designs persist primarily due to their lower upfront costs, despite their accessibility limitations.
Safety and Performance Improvements
Officials emphasize that compliance with AIS-216 will not only improve accessibility but also enhance safety. This standardized set of rules ensures bus bodies meet legal safety and performance expectations through proper design and testing protocols.
The new regulations represent a comprehensive approach to public transportation reform. By mandating low-floor designs nationwide, the government aims to create a more inclusive and user-friendly transit system that serves all citizens equally.
