In a significant move aimed at bolstering road safety and monitoring, the Bihar government has declared that all commercial vehicles operating within the state will soon be required to install Vehicle Location Tracking Devices (VLTD). The announcement was made by State Transport Minister Shravan Kumar during a high-level review meeting in Patna on Monday.
Strict Directive for Enhanced Road Safety
Minister Shravan Kumar expressed serious concern over the current low rate of compliance during the meeting with department officials. The review was called to assess the progress of VLTD and emergency button installation in public and commercial vehicles. Officials presented a grim picture, revealing that only 30–40% of public passenger vehicles in Bihar currently have these crucial tracking devices fitted.
The minister highlighted that the absence of these systems has directly contributed to dangerous practices like over-speeding, route violations, and sudden braking, which are major factors in road accidents. He also pointed out that the unchecked movement of heavy vehicles on rural roads is causing significant damage to public infrastructure.
Existing Rules and New Enforcement Drive
The meeting underscored that regulations already mandate the installation of VLTDs and emergency buttons in all public vehicles manufactured after January 1, 2019. Furthermore, older public vehicles are supposed to have these devices installed during key procedures such as registration, permit renewal, insurance renewal, or fitness certification. Vehicles operating under national permits are also required to have tracking systems.
Despite 30 agencies being authorized for the installation work, their performance was deemed unsatisfactory. Taking a stern stance, Minister Kumar directed officials to strictly enforce compliance with the rules. He warned that stringent action would be taken against vehicle operators who fail to install the devices within the stipulated deadlines.
What is VLTD and How Does It Work?
Vehicle Location Tracking Devices (VLTD) are advanced systems introduced primarily to enhance the safety of passengers, especially women and children. The technology provides real-time data on a vehicle's location and speed. A key feature is the emergency button, which can be activated to seek immediate help during a crisis.
These devices are directly linked to the transport department's control room, ensuring that alerts are received instantly. This connection allows for a swift emergency response according to established protocols, potentially saving lives and preventing crimes.
The state's push for universal VLTD adoption marks a critical step towards modernizing transport oversight and making Bihar's roads safer for everyone.
