Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, has firmly opposed the introduction of driverless cars in India, stating his concerns about the impact on employment, society, and the unique traffic conditions in the country. Speaking at the Zero Mile Samvad, Gadkari dismissed the possibility of autonomous vehicles gaining traction in India. His position adds a noteworthy dimension to the global discourse on self-driving technology, with India appearing to lean towards maintaining a predominantly human-driven vehicular landscape.
Gadkari’s stance is in line with his focus on job creation and the socio-economic considerations associated with new technologies. The minister’s statement reflects a cautious approach, recognizing the potential disruption and societal adjustments that could accompany the integration of autonomous vehicles in the Indian context.
As technological advancements progress, Gadkari’s position prompts discussions on striking a balance between innovation and societal impact, particularly in a country with diverse and intricate road conditions like India. His statement offers insights into the government’s viewpoint on emerging automotive technologies and their compatibility with the intricacies of the Indian transportation ecosystem.