India To Mandate Rear Seat Belt Alarms For New Cars By 2025

The move revisits a topic of discussion that became prominent after the unfortunate demise of Cyrus Mistry.

Cyrus Mistry was the former Tata Sons chairman and is car accident highlighted the importance of wearing seat belts, even in rear seats, as he was found without one at the time of the crash, which ultimately led to his death in the accident.

Focus on Safety: Rear Seat Belt Alarm

An official clarified that the latest draft notification focuses solely on the rear seat belt alarm. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing road safety, following an earlier attempt to introduce additional safety features, which included the six airbags and 3-point seat belt requirements. However, those proposals did not advance, leading to the lapse of the entire notification.

The current regulations mandate seatbelt reminders for the driver and the front-seat passenger. Yet, the enforcement of seat belt laws for rear seat passengers, despite being in place, has seen limited attention.

A fine of Rs 1,000 can be imposed under the Motor Vehicle Act on those not adhering to this safety measure. However, compliance remains low, partly due to lack of awareness and enforcement challenges.

A Step Toward Enhanced Safety

This initiative by the road transport ministry marks a significant step towards strengthening the safety norms for passengers. It revisits the critical need for all occupants within a vehicle to use seat belts, a safety feature proven to save lives in the event of an accident.

With the implementation of the rear seat belt alarm, the aim is to reduce fatalities and injuries, ensuring a safer journey for all. The introduction of the rear seat belt alarm as a mandatory feature highlights a proactive approach towards road safety, acknowledging the gaps in awareness and enforcement of existing laws.

As vehicles evolve with advanced safety technologies, ensuring the basic safety measures like wearing seat belts in all seats becomes crucial. This move could potentially pave the way for more comprehensive safety protocols in the future, making roads safer for everyone.Source