- By Divanshi Sharma
- Wed, 13 Dec 2023 05:55 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
The Indian Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has enforced a mandatory requirement for all new trucks in India to be equipped with air-conditioned cabins. This rule has been implemented to enhance the working conditions of truck drivers. A draft notification regarding this implementation was issued in July that specifies that motor vehicles falling under categories N2 and N3, manufactured from January 1, 2025 onward, must have air-conditioned cabins.
Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari states that every truck running on Indian roads will be equipped with air-conditioning to provide truck drivers with an improved working environment. He also emphasised on the vital role truck drivers play in ensuring road safety in India and their well-being should be the priority.
As per the ministry's notification, vehicles produced on or after October 1, 2025, must be equipped with a cabin air-conditioning system for those falling under the N2 and N3 categories. The notification further specifies that the testing of cabins with air-conditioning systems should adhere to the regulations set by the Indian Standards Institution (ISI).
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Additionally, Nitin Gadkari mentioned that truck drivers in India are the most neglected when we talk about public transport in India. He pointed out that these drivers, who play a crucial role in delivering essential goods across the country, often work too much. This overwork can make them tired and tired drivers might cause accidents on highways, especially in challenging conditions. After releasing the draft notification, Gadkari emphasised that the decision is a big step toward creating more comfortable working conditions for truck drivers. Gadkari stood firm on the decision despite objections from various departments which included concerns about increased costs for commercial vehicles in India.