Safety first: Unlocking a comprehensive approach to safer trucking in India

India's trucking crisis demands urgent action. Safety isn't just compliance; it's a strategic imperative. Smart technology, driver training and design innovation are key to safer roads.

- BY Rajesh Kaul, Vice President and Business Head – Trucks, Tata Motors

India's road transport sector is the backbone of its economy, moving over 60% of the country's freight. As the nation's logistics ecosystem grows rapidly, ensuring road safety has become an urgent priority. The surge in freight movement, increasing road congestion, and evolving regulatory frameworks demand a fundamental shift—where safety is not just a compliance requirement but a strategic imperative.

The statistics further underscore the severity of the issue. As per media reports, in 2024 alone, authorities issued 55,048 challans to trucks for violations such as overloading and reckless driving, nearly double the 28,422 recorded in 2023. Road accidents involving commercial vehicles not only result in tragic loss of life but also disrupt supply chains and increase operational costs. Addressing this crisis requires a holistic, industry-wide commitment to safer trucking.

Reimagining safety in product design

The foundation of safer roads begins at the very first stage—vehicle design. Safety must be embedded as a core principle, influencing every aspect from structural integrity to driver ergonomics. A well-designed truck is not just safer for the driver but also for other passengers on the road. Enhanced visibility, reinforced cabin structures, and intuitive control layouts help reduce driver fatigue and improve overall control, minimising the risk of accidents.