New Vehicle Lighting Rules: Bikes May Get Low-Beam-Only Headlamps
Excessive headlight glare has become a growing road-safety concern, particularly during night driving across the country. To address this, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has proposed draft changes to vehicle lighting rules under the Central Motor Vehicles Rules.
These proposed norms target automatic headlamps, high-intensity lights, and the nighttime visibility of heavy vehicles.
Automatic Headlamps on Bikes
Under the proposed rules, automatic headlamps on new two-wheelers may operate exclusively in passing-beam or low-beam mode.
This draft measure aims to reduce unnecessary high-beam utilization and prevent sudden visual discomfort for oncoming traffic. These proposed regulations apply strictly to new motorcycles and are not a mandatory retrofit requirement for existing vehicles.
High-Intensity Headlights
The government has also proposed restricting excessive-intensity headlamps across various vehicle categories. The core objective is to curb harsh glare that causes temporary vision impairment for other motorists. Draft limits propose reducing maximum luminous intensity thresholds for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers.
Reflective Markings
Additionally, the draft rules propose strengthening performance standards for retro-reflective tapes and markers on commercial carriers and heavy vehicles. These updates are intended to significantly enhance vehicle visibility at night and during adverse weather conditions.
Why Vehicle Lighting Rules Matter?
Better control over headlight glare and improved visibility of large carriers can make nighttime driving considerably safer. These proposed changes align with broader national initiatives to reduce accidents through updated vehicle safety standards.
Takeaway: Indian motorists should note that these updates are currently proposed draft rules and may be implemented to shape safer driving habits.
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