Supreme Court Questions Government Delays
The Supreme Court recently criticized the Central Government for its failure to implement Section 215B of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 and establish the crucial National Road Safety Board. This landmark directive highlights the urgent need for comprehensive road safety reforms across India.
A bench comprising Justice Abhay Oka and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan granted the government a strict six-month deadline to ensure the National Road Safety Board becomes operational. The Court emphasized that no additional time extensions would be granted, marking a firm stance on road safety implementation.
National Road Safety Board Functions and Responsibilities
Core Advisory Functions
Under Section 215B, the Board carries significant responsibilities in advising both Central and State Governments on critical road safety aspects. The National Road Safety Board functions encompass comprehensive traffic management and vehicle safety standards.
Vehicle Standards and Safety Equipment
The Board must establish standards for:
- Motor vehicle design, weight, and construction
- Manufacturing processes and operational guidelines
- Vehicle maintenance protocols
- Safety equipment specifications
- Registration and licensing procedures
Road Infrastructure and Traffic Control
Road safety standards formulation represents another crucial function. The Board will develop guidelines for road infrastructure development and implement effective traffic control measures nationwide.
Technology and Education Initiatives
Advanced Vehicle Technology Promotion
The National Road Safety Board will spearhead initiatives promoting new vehicle technologies that enhance road safety. This includes evaluating emerging automotive safety innovations and recommending their adoption.
Vulnerable Road Users Protection
Special attention will be given to protecting vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists. The Board will develop targeted safety programs addressing their specific needs.
Driver Education and Awareness Programs
Comprehensive education programs for drivers and road users form a cornerstone of the Board’s mandate. These initiatives aim to create a culture of road safety awareness across all user demographics.
Court’s Strong Directive on Implementation Timeline
Government’s Extended Timeline Request
On April 17th, 2025, the Court directed the Central Government to submit an affidavit specifying the Board constitution timeline. The Government subsequently requested a nine-month period for National Road Safety Board establishment.
Court’s Firm Response
The Supreme Court expressed bewilderment at the Government’s extended timeline request, stating: “We fail to understand why the Government of India needs such a long time to implement Section 215B of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.”
The Court granted only six months from the directive date, emphasizing that no further extensions would be considered.
Current Implementation Challenges
Amicus Curiae Submissions
Amicus Curiae Gaurav Agrawal highlighted that the National Road Safety Board remained merely a paper entity, with neither Chairperson nor Members appointed. This situation has prevented the Board from fulfilling its critical road safety functions.
Prerequisites for Effective Implementation
The Court emphasized that Board recommendations can only be implemented after proper constitution. This logical prerequisite underscores the importance of immediate action on Board formation.
Additional Road Safety Directives
State and Union Territory Responsibilities
The Supreme Court also directed all states and union territories to develop swift response protocols for road accident victims. This directive aims to ensure immediate assistance reaches accident victims, potentially saving countless lives.
Comprehensive Road Safety Ecosystem
The Court’s directives reflect a holistic approach to road safety implementation, encompassing prevention, response, and recovery mechanisms across India’s transportation network.
Implications for India’s Road Safety Future
The Supreme Court’s firm stance on National Road Safety Board constitution signals a new era in India’s approach to traffic management and vehicle safety. With the six-month deadline, the government must prioritize road safety infrastructure development and implement comprehensive safety measures nationwide.
This directive represents a crucial step toward reducing India’s alarming road accident statistics and creating a safer transportation environment for all road users.
