Handling of self-driving cars

The news that self-driving cars like Waymo are already operating on roads in some parts of the world naturally sparks both excitement and unease, compelling me to reflect on whether such a technological advancement can truly be utilised in India and in other countries in the region, and whether it would ultimately prove to be a blessing or a curse.

- BY DR DEBAPRIYA MUKHERJEE

Autonomous vehicles represent one of the most ambitious applications of artificial intelligence in everyday life. Their strongest promise lies in road safety: globally, and especially in India, a majority of road accidents occur due to human error—rash driving, fatigue, drunkenness, distraction, or disregard for traffic rules. In theory, selfdriving cars, equipped with advanced sensors, cameras, LiDAR systems, and real-time decisionmaking algorithms, do not suffer from such weaknesses. They can maintain consistent speeds, obey traffic signals, anticipate collisions, and react faster than human drivers. In countries with well-organized traffic systems, Waymo-like cars have already demonstrated their ability to reduce accidents and ensure smoother travel. If adapted successfully, such technology could significantly reduce India’s alarming road fatality numbers and make commuting safer, especially in urban areas.

Practical Advantages

Beyond safety, autonomous vehicles offer several practical advantages. They could transform mobility for elderly people, persons with disabilities, and those who are unable to drive, giving them independence and dignity. In congested cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Kolkata, self-driving cars could optimize traffic flow, reduce unnecessary braking, improve fuel efficiency, and even lower emissions through smoother driving patterns. From an economic perspective, the rise of autonomous technology could generate new opportunities in software development, artificial intelligence research, vehicle maintenance, and smart infrastructure, encouraging innovation and skill development among India’s youth. In controlled environments such as expressways, industrial corridors, airports, or smart cities, self-driving vehicles could initially function as reliable transport solutions before wider deployment.