New Delhi - In a major move aimed at enhancing safety, transparency, and efficiency in the transport sector, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH)., has announced that Vehicle Location Tracking Devices (VLTD) will be mandatory for all transport tractors from October 1, 2026. Additionally, installation of Event Data Recorders (EDR) will become compulsory from April 1, 2027.
These measures are part of proposed amendments to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. The initiative aims to modernize road transport by ensuring better monitoring of vehicle operations and improving overall road safety. The VLTDs must comply with the AIS-140 standard, ensuring compatibility and reliability.
The new rule also mandates the integration of VLTDs with RFID transceivers. This integration will enable the devices to read data from passive RFID tags fitted on coupled trailers and transmit the information to a backend system. As a result, operators and authorities will have real-time visibility into which trailer is attached to which tractor and its current status, significantly improving logistics management.
Furthermore, all trailers will be required to have passive RFID tags compliant with IS 16722:2018. This step will help in the electronic identification of trailers and seamless digital linkage with tractors.
From April 1, 2027, haulage tractors must have Event Data Recorders to track key data like speed and braking, boosting road safety. The ministry has asked authorities to update technical norms by December 31, 2025. Stakeholders have 30 days to share feedback before final rules are set.
This move aims to improve monitoring, reduce theft and accidents, and simplify insurance processes in India’s logistics and transport sectors. Operators are advised to start preparations now to stay compliant and enhance operational efficiency.
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