India’s Smart Mobility Leap: ITS India Forum Takes Global Stage with Shri Nitin Gadkari’s Vision

In a significant milestone for India’s intelligent transportation ecosystem, the ITS India Forum is set to showcase the nation’s advancements in smart mobility at the ITS World Congress 2025 in Atlanta, USA (August 24–28). The Forum’s growing influence was further cemented by its recent election to the ITS Asia-Pacific Board, amplifying India’s role in shaping global transportation policies and standards.

A Visionary Partnership with Shri Nitin Gadkari

The Honourable Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari, has been a driving force behind India’s mobility transformation. In a recent interaction, Akhilesh Srivastava, President of ITS India Forum, highlighted the Minister’s unwavering support for deploying cutting-edge technologies to enhance road safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

Under Shri Gadkari’s leadership, India has witnessed unprecedented infrastructure growth, with highways expanding at 33.8 km per day and logistics costs dropping from 16% to 9%, boosting export competitiveness. His vision aligns perfectly with the Forum’s mission to integrate Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) into India’s road networks.

Key Initiatives Showcasing India’s ITS Leadership

1. Next-Gen ATMS White Paper

Developed after five high-impact roundtables with government, industry, and academia, this document outlines a roadmap for advanced traffic management systems. The Forum has sought Shri Gadkari’s support for its official launch.

2. Bengaluru CV2X Green Corridor Pilot

A groundbreaking initiative leveraging Connected Vehicle-to-Everything (CV2X) technology reduced emergency response times by 38%. The Forum aims to scale this nationwide, including applications in next-gen tolling systems.

3. Road User Charging (RUC) System

With India joining the Global RUC Alliance, the Forum is pushing for dynamic tolling, congestion pricing, and smart parking solutions to optimize urban mobility.

4. Capacity-Building Programs

Collaborations with South Asian University (SAU) and the Asian Institute of Transport Development (AITD) are nurturing the next generation of ITS leaders through specialized training and research.

Global Recognition and Future Roadmap

The ITS India Forum’s inclusion in the ITS Asia-Pacific Board underscores India’s rising influence in smart mobility. The upcoming ITS World Congress 2025 will be a platform to highlight:

·        Digital transformation in transport, including AI-driven traffic solutions.

·        Sustainable mobility initiatives like electric vehicle (EV) integration and green corridors.

·        Policy frameworks for seamless ITS adoption across states.

A Safer, Smarter, and Greener Future

Shri Gadkari’s ambitious targets—such as making Indian roads better than the U.S. within two years and accelerating EV adoption—are being realized through public-private partnerships and tech-driven solutions. The ITS India Forum’s efforts complement this vision, ensuring India emerges as a global leader in intelligent mobility.

“India’s mobility revolution is not just about infrastructure; it’s about reshaping lives through innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity,” said Akhilesh Srivastava. “With Shri Gadkari’s leadership, we are poised to transform transportation—locally impactful, globally connected.”

Source Link: https://medium.com/@akhlisheshsrivastva/indias-smart-mobility-leap-its-india-forum-takes-global-stage-with-shri-nitin-gadkari-s-vision-6aa323148aa0

India’s Vision for Intelligent Transport Gains Global Recognition at IRF Summit in Athens

Athens, Greece, July 3, 2025 — The International Road Federation (IRF) held its Annual Summit and Strategy Workshop from June 29 to July 3, 2025, in Athens, Greece, convening global mobility leaders, policymakers, and infrastructure experts. Among the distinguished participants was Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava, President of the IRF India Chapter and ITS India Forum, representing India at the global stage in his first official participation as the newly elected IRF IC President. His presence signified a growing global recognition of India’s transformative journey in intelligent transportation systems (ITS), road safety, and digital mobility.

This year’s summit focused on redefining the strategic roadmap for IRF’s 2025–2030 vision, emphasizing a more impactful, inclusive, and intergenerational approach to road infrastructure and sustainable mobility. Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava, as a core member of the IRF Strategy Group and a newly elected member of the IRF Board of Directors, contributed significantly to these deliberations.

Shaping IRF’s Five-Year Strategy

At the Strategy Workshop, IRF leadership, including newly confirmed President Dimitrios Mandalozis, and re-elected Board Members such as Bill M. Halkias, Anouar BENAZZOUZ, Nicolas Miravalls, and others, worked alongside new appointees like Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava to set a new agenda for IRF’s future. Discussions revolved around:

·  Mainstreaming Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital twin technologies in infrastructure management

·       Strengthening international collaboration on road safety and ITS standards

·    Scaling capacity building and knowledge transfer initiatives, particularly for Global South nations

·       Supporting harmonized road user charging systems and sustainable financing models

Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava’s insights, grounded in India’s large-scale implementation of ITS and tolling reforms, were particularly well received. He emphasized India’s ongoing evolution from manual to digital and satellite-based tolling, successful AI-powered ATMS deployments, and the use of CV2X technologies for emergency preemption systems.

Highlighting India’s Leadership in Traffic Management

At the Traffic Management Symposium, held as part of the IRF Summit, Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava actively participated in discussions addressing future-ready traffic governance. He showcased India’s innovations in traffic management, particularly the NHAI Data Lake project, implementation of GNSS tolling pilots, and the landmark “Road Safety 2.0” initiative, adopted across multiple states.

His presentation highlighted India’s capability to scale complex ITS projects with strong public-private collaboration. Real-world examples, such as the CV2X Emergency Corridor in Bengaluru and Intelligent Traffic Enforcement through AI-ANPR in Delhi and Maharashtra, illustrated India’s unique ability to create customized, scalable, and outcome-focused digital solutions.

Strengthening Strategic International Ties

The Athens Summit also served as a powerful forum for bilateral and multilateral collaboration. Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava engaged with global leaders to deepen India’s integration with key international stakeholders:

• Joost Vantomme, President of ERTICO-ITS Europe, and Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava discussed harmonizing ITS standards between Europe and India. Their meeting highlighted the need for enhanced collaboration on 5G V2X, data governance in connected mobility, and safety-critical interoperability.
• Dimitrios Mandalozis, the newly elected IRF Global President, welcomed India’s increasing role. Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava conveyed India’s readiness to co-lead global discussions on mobility-as-a-service and sustainable transport finance models.
• Norbert Schindler, Founder of GNSS Consulting, expressed his appreciation for India’s adoption of GNSS tolling. Their discussions focused on learnings from European tolling transitions, and possible collaborations to enhance satellite-based tolling architecture in India.

These meetings underscored India’s readiness to not only adopt global best practices but also to contribute meaningfully to shaping them.

Recognition of Indian Innovation on Global Platforms

It was a proud moment to see Indian innovations receive recognition at this prestigious global event. Companies such as Kataline Infraproducts, known for their intelligent road safety interventions, Interise Trust for their innovative works, and TRL works in Kerala, were honored for their innovative contributions to road infrastructure development in India.

Kataline was honored under the IRF Circle of Excellence for its data-driven intervention at Waddhamna Junction. Interise Trust also received accolades for pioneering road infrastructure models that address last-mile and underserved regional needs. These recognitions serve as a testament to the progress Indian companies are making by combining indigenous innovation with global standards. The fact that such interventions are being piloted in Indian states like Maharashtra and Kerala and acknowledged internationally is a clear indication that India is moving towards becoming a global leader in digital road safety.

Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava congratulated these teams and reiterated IRF India Chapter’s commitment to supporting and amplifying such impactful work. He also shared the plans for expanding the IRF Innovation Accelerator in India to nurture similar startups in the field of AI-enabled infrastructure and ITS.

Charting the Course to Atlanta and Beyond

As the IRF Summit concluded, attention turned toward the ITS World Congress 2025, to be held in Atlanta. Under Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava’s leadership, the IRF India Chapter will coordinate India’s country presence and technical showcase at this global forum. The India Pavilion will highlight use cases on Free-flow tolling, integrated ATMS platforms, digital enforcement systems, and the Safe Driving Score framework.

Additionally, strategic planning is underway to host a special session titled “India@2047: Digital Highways and Safer Roads”, featuring senior Indian government officials and global partners. This initiative will mark India’s vision for future-ready infrastructure aligned with the goals of Viksit Bharat 2047.

A Transformative Moment for India

India’s participation in the IRF Annual Summit and Strategy Workshop 2025 was not just symbolic—it was transformational. It positioned India as a frontrunner in the global mobility transformation, bringing real-world deployments, research-backed frameworks, and policy innovations to the international arena.

Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava’s leadership, backed by his deep involvement in India’s digital transformation journey in highways, road safety, and transport governance, brought clarity and momentum to India’s voice on global platforms. His inclusion in the IRF Board ensures that India will continue to shape the next generation of sustainable mobility solutions and contribute toward global knowledge sharing.

As India prepares for its ambitious highway expansion under the PM Gati Shakti and Bharatmala programs, aligned with AI, data-driven monitoring, and carbon-neutral design, the learnings from Athens will serve as a cornerstone in aligning with global benchmarks.

Looking at India’s spectacular and consistent progress in road infrastructure development over the last decade—under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the dynamic guidance of Hon’ble Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari—the world is now looking toward India with high expectations. This growing confidence was strongly echoed during the Athens summit, where several international partners expressed their enthusiasm to join India’s flagship event GRIS-2026 (Global Road Infratech Summit) to be held on 5–6 February 2026 at The Ashok Hotel, New Delhi.

This annual summit, hosted by the IRF India Chapter, will serve as a global platform to showcase India’s innovations, policy leadership, and opportunities in road infrastructure and smart mobility. With participation expected from over 30 countries and top global companies, GRIS-2026 promises to be one of the most consequential events in the global mobility calendar.

Conclusion

The IRF Annual Summit 2025 in Athens stands out as a historic moment for India’s international mobility diplomacy. From policy shaping to innovation showcasing, and from collaborative partnerships to recognition of excellence, India’s presence was influential, strategic, and forward-looking.

Through continued collaboration with global partners and an unwavering focus on sustainable, intelligent, and inclusive infrastructure, the IRF India Chapter under Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava is poised to lead India’s mobility transformation into its most impactful era yet.

Source: https://medium.com/@akhlisheshsrivastva/indias-vision-for-intelligent-transport-gains-global-recognition-at-irf-summit-in-athens-0431d0707d0d

Meghalaya Mandates Driver Information Display in Commercial Vehicles for Enhanced Passenger Safety

In a landmark move designed to bolster passenger safety and foster greater transparency in commercial transport, the Meghalaya government has announced that all commercial vehicles in the state will soon be required to display drivers’ personal information inside the vehicle, where it is visible to passengers. This regulation, which is expected to come into force following an official notification, highlights a growing focus on traveler security, accountability, and trust—especially in a state where tourism is rapidly expanding.

Scope and Implementation

The new mandate will apply specifically to vehicles operating on commercial permits issued by the state’s transport department through its district transport officers. This includes taxis, buses, and other vehicles used for hire, but excludes private vehicles, government-owned vehicles, and those belonging to government undertakings. Once the rule is formalized, commercial vehicle owners will have a one-month window to comply by displaying the driver’s name, license number, contact number, and home address in a prominent place inside the vehicle.

Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh, announcing the policy, emphasized that the rule is a “simple but effective measure” aimed at empowering passengers and discouraging unlawful behavior by drivers. “When passengers know who is driving them, it creates a sense of trust and accountability,” he said, adding that the regulation is also a preventive step to strengthen Meghalaya’s overall security ecosystem.

Motivations Behind the Mandate

The decision follows a high-level meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar and is rooted in concerns over passenger safety—particularly as Meghalaya attracts more tourists each year. The government believes that displaying driver information will help instill a sense of safety among travelers and—where applicable—reduce the likelihood of criminal intentions by drivers. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the reputation of Meghalaya as a safe and tourist-friendly destination, where both locals and visitors can travel with confidence.

Comparative Context and Industry Response

Meghalaya’s policy is notable for its direct focus on passenger-facing transparency. While other Indian states and the central government have recently introduced advanced safety technologies for commercial vehicles—such as lane departure warnings, anti-lock braking systems (ABS), and driver drowsiness alerts—these measures primarily address accident prevention and are not passenger-visible in the same way. For example, a recent central government mandate requires commercial vehicles to adopt advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and other technological features to combat fatigue and overloading, which are leading causes of road accidents in India. However, the Meghalaya directive uniquely empowers passengers by making critical driver information accessible during their journey.

Industry associations in Meghalaya, such as the state’s taxi operators’ group, are currently reviewing the implications of the new rule and are expected to respond after further discussions with the government. While compliance may pose logistical challenges for some operators, the regulation’s clarity and the one-month grace period are designed to ease the transition.

 

Expected Impacts on Passenger Safety and Tourism

Passenger safety is a central concern for governments worldwide, especially in regions experiencing a surge in tourism. By requiring the display of driver information, Meghalaya is taking a proactive stance not only to protect travelers but also to signal its commitment to transparency and accountability in the transport sector. The government anticipates that passengers—particularly tourists unfamiliar with local drivers and routes—will feel more secure knowing they can easily identify and, if necessary, contact the person responsible for their journey.

This measure could also serve as a deterrent to potential misconduct. The visibility of driver credentials may discourage criminal behavior and encourage drivers to adhere to professional standards. While it is too early to quantify the rule’s impact on crime rates or accident statistics, the psychological reassurance it offers passengers is expected to be significant.

Broader Implications for Indian Transport Policy

Meghalaya’s approach marks a clear departure from solely technology-driven safety interventions, instead focusing on human accountability and passenger visibility. This reflects a broader trend toward multimodal strategies in passenger safety, combining technological innovation with regulatory transparency. While the central government continues to invest in advanced safety features and stricter certification for commercial vehicles—such as the revised Bus Body Code and the push for “indirect vision” devices in buses—Meghalaya’s policy demonstrates that low-tech, high-impact solutions can also play a vital role.

Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

Implementing the new requirement will require effective communication and coordination between the government, transport authorities, and vehicle owners. The success of the mandate will depend on enforcement rigor and the willingness of operators to comply. However, the potential benefits—increased passenger trust, enhanced safety perceptions, and a stronger tourism brand—make the initiative a compelling model for other Indian states to consider.

Additionally, the policy may inspire further innovations in passenger safety. For example, digital platforms could be leveraged to verify driver credentials in real time, or QR codes could be displayed inside vehicles to provide instant access to authenticated driver information. Such steps would build on the foundation laid by the current mandate and further modernize Meghalaya’s transport ecosystem.

Conclusion

Meghalaya’s decision to mandate the display of driver information in commercial vehicles is a bold, passenger-centric step toward safer and more accountable public transport. By making critical details readily accessible to travelers, the state is addressing both the real and perceived risks associated with commercial travel, especially as tourism grows. This initiative not only enhances the immediate safety of passengers but also reinforces Meghalaya’s reputation as a forward-thinking, visitor-friendly destination. As the rule takes effect, its impact will be closely watched, potentially setting a precedent for other regions seeking to balance technological advancement with transparency and trust in public transport.

Source Link: https://medium.com/@akhlisheshsrivastva/meghalaya-mandates-driver-information-display-in-commercial-vehicles-for-enhanced-passenger-safety-e76606c7cecb

 

Akhilesh Srivastava Joins IRF Board of Directors: Pioneering the Future of Global Road Infrastructure

The global transport and infrastructure community witnessed a significant milestone during the IRF 2025 General Assembly held in Athens, as Mr. AkhileshSrivastava was officially appointed to the Board of Directors of the International Road Federation (IRF). This prestigious recognition is not only a proud moment for India but also a powerful testament to Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava’s visionary contributions to intelligent transport systems, digital highways, and sustainable mobility.

                                                               Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava

A Leader in Smart Infrastructure

Akhilesh Srivastava, known for his deep expertise and pioneering work in digital transformation of road infrastructure, has been at the forefront of revolutionizing how roads are built, maintained, and managed. His leadership has been instrumental in deploying smart technologies in national infrastructure projects, including real-time traffic management, AI-driven road safety initiatives, and automated tolling systems.

His work aligns perfectly with IRF's global mission of promoting safer, more sustainable, and technology-driven road networks.

Driving Change at a Global Scale

With his appointment to the IRF Board, Mr. Srivastava is set to play a crucial role in shaping international policies and practices that advance:

• Smart highway development
• Sustainable and climate-resilient infrastructure
• Intelligent transport systems (ITS)
• Digital construction and maintenance practices
• Road safety innovation and global standards

This global platform gives him the opportunity to collaborate with international experts, share best practices, and influence the global dialogue on making transport infrastructure more efficient, inclusive, and future-ready.

A Moment of National Pride

Mr. Srivastava’s appointment is not only a personal achievement but also a reflection of India’s growing leadership in the global digital infrastructure space. His contributions symbolize how Indian expertise is increasingly playing a pivotal role on the world stage in building smarter, safer, and more resilient road networks.

Building Roads That Shape the Future

In his own words, this appointment is a commitment to building a better world—one road at a time. With his innovative approach and strategic mindset, Mr. Srivastava will continue to bridge the gap between technology, sustainability, and human mobility.

As we enter an era where digital highways, climate consciousness, and intelligent mobility are key drivers of infrastructure growth, his leadership will be instrumental in ensuring that we build roads not just for today—but for tomorrow.

Congratulations to Akhilesh Srivastava on this remarkable achievement. The road ahead is smarter, safer, and more connected—thanks to leaders like you!

 Source Lin: https://medium.com/@akhlisheshsrivastva/akhilesh-srivastava-joins-irf-board-of-directors-pioneering-the-future-of-global-road-5af917eecf65

Dwarka Expressway: India’s First AI-Powered Smart Highway Transforming Road Safety

In a monumental step toward smart and secure transportation, Delhi’s Dwarka Expressway has been transformed into India’s first AI-powered smart highway. This innovation comes with the deployment of a cutting-edge Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS), covering a 56.46 km stretch, combining AI technology, real-time surveillance, and automated traffic enforcement to drastically enhance road safety and reduce violations.

The initiative marks a crucial turning point in India’s road infrastructure strategy, showcasing how intelligent systems can revolutionize urban mobility.

                                                                 Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava

Pioneering Leadership in Smart Mobility

The ATMS project was conceptualized and developed by the Indian Highways Management Company Ltd. (IHMCL) and executed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). This initiative reflects the vision and leadership of Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava, a pioneering figure in India’s smart mobility landscape.

Known for championing digital transformation across India's highways, Mr. Srivastava has been instrumental in developing intelligent traffic enforcement, electronic toll collection, and now, AI-driven traffic management systems like the one on the Dwarka Expressway.

What Sets Dwarka Expressway’s ATMS Apart?

The AI-powered ATMS turns the expressway into a highly intelligent and responsive corridor. Here's what makes it stand out:

• 110 high-resolution PTZ cameras placed at every 1-km interval for round-the-clock surveillance.
• Covers 56.46 km, including 28.46 km on Dwarka Expressway and the remainder on NH-48.
• Detects 14 categories of traffic violations, such as overspeeding, not wearing seatbelts, and triple riding.
• Seamless integration with the NIC e-challan portal, enabling auto-detection and e-ticketing without police involvement.
• Equipped with smart features like VIDES (Video Incident Detection System), VASD (Vehicle Actuated Speed Display), Variable Message Signboards (VMS), and a centralized Command Centre.
• Capable of sending real-time alerts for traffic disruptions due to accidents, poor visibility, roadblocks, or even stray animals.

Smart Enforcement with Real-Time Detection

A major highlight of the ATMS is its ability to detect a wide range of traffic violations instantly. Once a violation—such as speeding or unsafe riding—is identified, the data is immediately transmitted to the NIC e-challan portal, where digital challans are generated automatically.

This streamlined process not only boosts efficiency but also ensures strict enforcement, reducing manual errors and increasing compliance among commuters.

Safety through Intelligent Emergency Response

More than just a surveillance tool, the ATMS acts as a proactive safety mechanism. With real-time data from cameras and sensors, it quickly identifies road incidents and triggers alerts to the central command centre. Whether it’s an accident, heavy fog, or unauthorized road activity, emergency teams are dispatched swiftly, minimizing delays and potential casualties.

Driving Awareness through Data and Technology

In addition to enforcement and emergency response, the ATMS supports road safety education. Using real-time data, authorities can launch targeted awareness campaigns, educating the public about safe driving practices such as seatbelt usage, speed control, and traffic discipline. This proactive communication fosters long-term behavioral change.

A Model for Smart Cities in India

The launch of the ATMS on Dwarka Expressway signifies more than a technological upgrade—it reflects India’s commitment to building smart infrastructure. As cities expand and traffic density grows, smart highways like this one will play a pivotal role in developing sustainable, efficient, and secure urban ecosystems.

This successful implementation could soon become a replicable model for highways nationwide, paving the way for a smarter and safer road network across India.

Conclusion

The AI-based traffic system on Dwarka Expressway represents a significant leap toward transforming India's road infrastructure. With the leadership of innovators like Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava, the future of Indian highways looks brighter, smarter, and safer.

This project not only strengthens enforcement and safety but also redefines how technology and infrastructure can work together for the greater good. As India advances on its smart city journey, more such innovations will undoubtedly follow—turning highways into hubs of intelligence and safety.

Source link: https://medium.com/@akhlisheshsrivastva/dwarka-expressway-indias-first-ai-powered-smart-highway-transforming-road-safety-f23b0999cf08

Mandatory ABS for Two-Wheelers: A Crucial Step towards Safer Roads

 

The Indian government’s decision to mandate Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) for all two-wheelers from January 1, 2026, is a bold and necessary step toward reducing road fatalities. As a Road Safety Ambassador and advocate for smart mobility solutions, I firmly believe this policy will save thousands of lives. However, it also brings economic challenges for manufacturers and consumers, particularly in the price-sensitive sub-125cc segment, which dominates 85% of India’s two-wheeler market.

                                                                 Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava

The Power of ABS: Revolutionizing Road Safety

ABS technology prevents wheel lock-up during emergency braking, allowing riders to maintain control and avoid skidding—a critical feature on India’s congested and often unpredictable roads. Government data reveals that two-wheelers account for 44% of road fatalities (nearly 75,000 deaths in 2022). The expansion of ABS to sub-125cc vehicles (previously exempt) addresses this grim statistic head-on. My experience working with NHAI, World Bank, and UN initiatives has shown that technology-driven safety measures, when implemented effectively, can reduce accidents by 30-50%.

Economic Impact: Challenges for OEMs and Consumers

While safety must be prioritized, the transition comes with hurdles:

1. Affordability Concerns: The sub-125cc segment—76% of ICE motorcycles and nearly all scooters—is highly price-sensitive. Nomura estimates a 3–5% price hike (₹3,000–₹10,000 per unit), which could reduce demand by 2–4%.

·        Hero MotoCorp (99% exposure), Honda (89%), TVS (86%), and Bajaj (72%) will face the biggest impact.

·        Rural buyers, who rely on affordability, may delay purchases, affecting industry recovery.

2.  EV Sector Strain: Electric two-wheelers (except premium models like Ola S1 Pro) will also face cost pressures, adding to existing supply-chain challenges.

The Way Forward: Balancing Safety & Affordability

To ensure a smooth transition, I recommend:
✔ Phased Implementation – A staggered rollout for entry-level models to ease financial burdens.
✔ Government Subsidies – Tax breaks or incentives to offset ABS costs for manufacturers.
✔ Consumer Awareness – Campaigns educating riders on ABS benefits, reinforcing that safety is non-negotiable.
✔ Localized Production – Encouraging domestic ABS manufacturing to reduce dependency on global suppliers like Bosch and Continental.

Conclusion: Safety Cannot Be Compromised

History shows that safety mandates (like BS-VI norms) initially disrupt markets but eventually become industry standards. While OEMs adapt, the long-term benefits—fewer accidents, lower medical costs, and safer roads—far outweigh short-term challenges.

As India moves toward its Vision Zero Accident goal, policies like ABS mandates must be supported by smart financing, public awareness, and industry collaboration. Let’s make Indian roads safer—one responsible decision at a time.

About Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava

A renowned Road Safety Ambassador, Smart Mobility Expert, and former Chief General Manager of NHAI, Mr. Srivastava has spearheaded multiple global road safety initiatives with the World Bank, UN, and IRF. He is a strong advocate for technology-driven traffic management and sustainable transport solutions.

Source link: https://medium.com/@akhlisheshsrivastva/mandatory-abs-for-two-wheelers-a-crucial-step-towards-safer-roads-c31eaee90493

Washington’s BEAM Act: How Speed Limiters Will Curb Reckless Driving and Save Lives

In a groundbreaking move to address rising traffic fatalities, Washington State has enacted the BEAM Act (House Bill 1596), a law mandating intelligent speed assistance (ISA) devices for high-risk drivers. Signed by Governor Bob Ferguson on May 12, 2025, the law targets reckless drivers with suspended licenses, using technology to enforce speed limits and prevent tragedies like the 2024 Renton crash that killed four people, including three children.

                                                                   Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava

Key Provisions of the BEAM Act

1.     Targeted Enforcement:

•  Drivers with licenses suspended for reckless speeding (defined as 20+ mph over limits ≥40 mph, or 10+ mph under 40 mph) must install ISA devices to regain limited driving privileges.

•   Judges can also require ISA devices as part of probation or pre-trial release.

2.     How the Technology Works:

•   GPS-linked devices prevent vehicles from exceeding posted speed limits, overriding accelerator input. Drivers get three monthly overrides for emergencies.

•   Similar to ignition interlocks for DUI offenders, tampering with the device is a gross misdemeanor.

3.     Implementation Timeline:

•   The law takes effect January 1, 2029, giving agencies time to establish protocols and affordability programs for low-income drivers.

Why the BEAM Act Matters

• Rising Traffic Deaths: Washington saw 809 traffic fatalities in 2023, a 33-year high, with speeding contributing to a third of deaths. The Renton crash, caused by a driver with prior speeding violations, became a rallying point for the law.
• National Trend: Washington joins Virginia, Georgia, and D.C. in adopting speed-limiting tech, while Europe mandates ISA in new cars.

Expert Insight: Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava’s Perspective

Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava, a globally recognized expert in intelligent traffic management and road safety technology, lauded Washington's bold step. “The BEAM Act represents a much-needed evolution in traffic law enforcement, leveraging technology to make our roads safer,” he said. “ISA devices act as digital guardians, preventing drivers from making fatal errors in judgment. With lives at stake, it's imperative that governments integrate such smart solutions into mainstream policy.”

He further emphasized the global relevance of this approach, stating, “Countries worldwide are grappling with road fatalities caused by over-speeding. Washington’s initiative will not only save lives but also set a precedent for intelligent traffic enforcement. India, too, is exploring similar measures, and this move offers valuable insights into scalable implementation models.”

Controversies and Challenges

• Critics highlight potential GPS inaccuracies in urban areas or tunnels, which could frustrate drivers 
• Costs: Drivers pay $21/month for the device, with subsidies for low-income users.

A Legacy of Safety

Named after the Renton crash victims—Buster Brown, Eloise Wilcoxson, Andrea Smith Hudson, and Matilda Wilcoxson—the BEAM Act reflects families’ advocacy. As Rep. Mari Leavitt stated, “Safety on our roads matters, and we will do everything to protect our communities”

Source link: https://medium.com/@akhlisheshsrivastva/washingtons-beam-act-how-speed-limiters-will-curb-reckless-driving-and-save-lives-c2f4ff5c88f0