Indian roads are one of the most treacherous terrains available in the continent and riding a two-wheeler here is nothing less than an art. We are a nation which results in one of the highest number of accidents in the world. Apart from cattle, broken roads etc, fellow riders/drivers are the biggest cause of these accidents. While inducting road sense in people and making roads safer is a long term process, the government is trying to make our two-wheelers safer!
Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has issued a draft notification to further amend the Central Motor Vehicle Rules. The government wants to introduce Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Combined Braking System (CBS) on all new two-wheelers (yes both scooters and motorcycles) with an engine displacement of more than 125 cc manufactured on or after April 1, 2017.
The notification also says that existing two-wheelers (125 cc and higher) will have to be come equipped with ABS and CBS from April 1, 2018. The government is also requesting for suggestions (as well as objections if any) on the same from the common public and parties involved. These can be sent to:
Joint Secretary,
Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
Transport Bhawan
Parliament Street,
New Delhi- 110001
ABS helps in preventing wheel-lock which is the major cause of skidding and also reduces braking distances (Details on how ABS works). CBS helps in applying brakes on both the wheels even when one lever/pedal has been pressed. This feature is already available in Honda products and we have found them helpful specially in a country where still majority of riders DO NOT use the front brake fearing a fall!
Related Reading: List of Five Most Affordable ABS Equipped Motorcycles in India Under 2 Lakhs
This is one of the most rational and sensible decision taken by the goventment of India and after a while we, motorists, have something to cheer for. Let us hope deadlines are adhered to and our roads become a much safer place to ride and enjoy biking on….
