Road Transport Ministry Proposes Fitness and Safety Norms for Two-Wheeled Ambulances

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has issued a draft notification proposing specific safety, equipment, and fitness testing standards for two-wheeled road ambulances under the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. The proposed regulations, published under notification G.S.R. 663(E), introduce new periodic inspection criteria and mandate compliance with Automotive Industry Standard AIS:209 (Part 1):2026 for two-wheeled emergency medical vehicles.

The draft rules establish a mandatory two-year validity period for the renewal of fitness certificates for two-wheeled road ambulances. Under the proposed amendments to Rule 62, official testing parameters will evaluate mounting brackets, fasteners, and structural members of the patient unit for cracks, loose bolts, or structural damage. Inspectors will also check tires, wheels, and rims, including side-mounted units, for cuts, bulges, wear, and correct inflation to ensure vehicle stability.

The inspection framework mandates verification of operational emergency warning lights, secure stretcher mounting, functional stretcher locking mechanisms, and intact patient restraint belts. Additionally, testing will cover the smooth operation of stretcher loading and unloading systems without jamming, alongside verifying the presence of an easily accessible and valid fire extinguisher.

The notification sets specific technical compliance deadlines for two-wheeled ambulances. Top warning lights fitted on these vehicles must conform to AIS:209 (Part 1):2026 starting October 1, 2026. Furthermore, L2 category two-wheeled ambulances manufactured on or after October 1, 2027, must meet the full AIS:209 standard and will be registered to operate strictly within geographic areas designated by respective state governments.