GPS mandatory for all vehicles from April 1

The Central Government has directed for installation of Global Positioning System (GPS) in all four-wheelers and heavy vehicles in the State by April 1.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has issued a notification in this regard under Section 59 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. The State Governments Transport Department has been asked to enforce the rule strictly.

The installation of GPS is mandatory for the vehicles that have obtained permit certificate from Regional Transport Offices. According to Section 2 and sub-section 35 in the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, the vehicle should install the GPS and panic button. However, it is not mandatory for two, three-wheelers and e-rickshaw, said a Transport Department senior official.

A notification has been issued to us to verify the GPS and panic button on all the vehicles. The installation of the devices will help anyone to track the position of the vehicle. It will bring transparency and curb theft. The vehicle owner can track their vehicles through the mobile phone. Also the passengers can travel safely in the vehicles used for commercial purposes.