Earlier this year, the Ministry of Road, Transport, and Highways (MoRTH) issued a draft notification to make a minimum of 6 airbags compulsory in all vehicles carrying up to 8 passengers, irrespective of their model, variant, and cost. October 1, 2022, was the target date to implement this regulation; however, the Indian Government is now likely to extend the deadline.
As per the reports, the Government is still in discussions with stakeholders and desires to enforce the regulation as soon as possible. And so, the rollout of the 6 airbags rule may be postponed since the October 1 deadline is just three days away.
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For those who aren’t aware, the dual front airbags, ABS, high-speed alert system, front seat belt reminders, and rear parking sensors are already mandatory in all cars. Under the new 6 airbags rule, carmakers will have to offer side and curtain airbags as well across all variants of a vehicle. It will help reduce the risk of injury and death of passengers in case of sideways collisions and rollover accidents. However, it’s worth noting that fitting extra airbags need research & tooling by carmakers, which will raise the vehicle’s cost. In comparison to the current models with standard dual front airbags, the additional four airbags will cost you approximately Rs 20,000 to Rs 30,000 extra.
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In other developments, the govt intends to make rear seat belt reminders and three-point belts for all front-facing seats mandatory in M and N category vehicles. India may also soon have its star-based safety rating system that is likely to be cherished as BHARAT NCAP. All of these will undoubtedly contribute to make automobiles safer in our country. However, there are still many other critical factors that need immediate attention, such as the structural integrity of vehicles, road infrastructure, public awareness, and medical facilities.
