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Key Points

The Tamil Nadu government has made GPS tracking mandatory for all public service vehicles to boost passenger safety. This directive requires compliance with the AIS-140 standard as part of a national framework. Manufacturers must register their devices and pass rigorous testing conducted by C-DAC. The system aims to provide real-time monitoring and greater transparency in transport operations.

Key Points: Tamil Nadu Mandates GPS Tracking for All Public Service Vehicles

  • Mandatory AIS-140 GPS devices for all Tamil Nadu public transport
  • Aligns with national framework from Union Road Transport Ministry
  • Manufacturers must register models with Transport Commissioner
  • Devices undergo 30-day testing by C-DAC for compliance
2 min read

TN govt makes GPS tracking mandatory for all public service vehicles

Tamil Nadu enforces AIS-140 GPS devices on all public transport for real-time tracking, enhanced passenger safety, and improved monitoring efficiency.

"The initiative will pave the way for real-time tracking of public service vehicles, enhance safety mechanisms, and improve the efficiency of monitoring. - Officials"

Chennai, Sep 1

In a move to strengthen passenger safety and improve monitoring of the transport sector, the Tamil Nadu government has issued an order making it mandatory for all public service vehicles to be fitted with standardised Vehicle Location Tracking Devices (VLTDs).

The directive, by the Home (Transport) Department, enforces compliance with Automotive Industry Standard-140 (AIS-140) across all vehicles classified under the public service and transport categories as per the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989.

The initiative is aligned with a national framework rolled out by the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). The government has authorised the Transport and Road Safety Commissioner to supervise the entire registration and activation process of these devices.

Manufacturers interested in supplying and fitting VLTDs must first register their models with the Commissioner.

They are required to possess a valid AIS-140 type approval certificate issued by accredited testing agencies and maintain adequate fitment centres across the state to ensure timely service and maintenance.

The Transport Commissioner will soon invite Expressions of Interest from eligible firms, who must apply within 30 working days. Each application has to be accompanied by a non-refundable fee of Rs 25,000 per device model and must include complete sample sets for evaluation.

The devices will then undergo rigorous testing for AIS-140 compliance and compatibility with the state’s backend monitoring platform, operated by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC). This evaluation is expected to be completed within 30 days. Only those models that pass the testing process and secure registration will be permitted for use in vehicles within the state.

The order also provides safeguards to protect consumers. Registered manufacturers will be required to establish a 24x7 support system for vehicle owners and set up service centres at zonal levels to ensure that assistance is readily available.

According to officials, the initiative will pave the way for real-time tracking of public service vehicles, enhance safety mechanisms, and improve the efficiency of monitoring. Once implemented, the system is expected to provide greater transparency in public transport operations and boost passenger confidence.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh Q
Good initiative but who will bear the cost? Ultimately it will be passed on to passengers through increased fares. Government should subsidize this for public transport operators.
A
Arjun K
Finally! This should have been implemented years ago. Will help prevent accidents and ensure drivers follow proper routes. Hope other states follow Tamil Nadu's lead 👍
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Sarah B
The 24x7 support system requirement is impressive. Many tech initiatives fail due to poor maintenance and support. This shows the government is thinking about long-term sustainability.
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Vikram M
Hope they ensure data privacy and security. With C-DAC involved, it should be fine, but we need clear guidelines on who can access this tracking data and for what purposes.
M
Michael C
The 30-day evaluation period seems reasonable. Quality control is crucial - we don't want substandard devices failing after installation. Good to see proper certification requirements.
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Nisha Z
As a mother, this gives me peace of mind knowing my children's school buses will be tracked. Should help prevent delays and ensure driver accountability. Excellent move! 👏

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