The transport department has mandated the installation of tracking devices with emergency panic buttons in all public service and goods vehicles holding national permits within one year, reported by TOI. The regulations, effective from December 1, 2023, require vehicle owners to equip their vehicles with these devices by November 30, 2024.
The designated tracking devices, priced at Rs 7,599 (excluding GST), can be obtained from approved manufacturers, with 13 such manufacturers identified by the department. Failure to comply with this requirement will result in the non-renewal of fitness certificates for public service vehicles by Regional Transport Offices (RTOs).
These regulations apply to various vehicles, including taxis (including those operated by ride-hailing services like Ola and Uber), state-owned road transport corporation buses, and school buses.
Source: TOI