NEW DELHI: Under-aged schoolgoing children driving e-scooters or e-bikes would no more go scot free soon. All powered vehicles - both electric or mechanical - would be brought under the definition of “vehicle” so that all rules of Motor Vehicles (MV) Act such as mandatory driving licence, insurance and wearing of helmet apply on such vehicles and their users.

Sources said the group of state transport ministers set up by the road transport ministry to suggest changes in the MV Act has recommended this change so that such vehicles don’t get the exemption. Violation of rules will attract penalties.

“This will being greater discipline on roads. Police don’t take action against juvenile drivers or the vehicle owner, if they are caught driving e-bikes and that’s because of the gaps in our laws. The e-bike manufacturers have also been exploiting these loopholes,” said an official from a state government, who was present in the recent GoM recent meeting.

At present, certain electric bikes fall under exempt category on account of power less than 250 watt and maximum speed less than 25 kmph. One can easily spot e-bikes speeding at more than 25 kmph and these can pose potential risk to the rider, if they are not equipped with headgear.

The GoM has also suggested to the states to incorporate penal provisions in the Police Act and traffic rules and regulations for effective enforcement of traffic discipline. “Central government may also examine whether rights and duties of pedestrians, cyclists and other non-motorised traffic can be incorporated in the National Highway Act,” said an official.



Facebook Twitter Linkedin Mail