New Delhi: In a landmark move aimed at enhancing road safety, the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has announced that anti-lock braking systems (ABS) will be mandatory for all two-wheelers manufactured from January 2026 onwards, irrespective of engine size. The decision is part of a broader national strategy to significantly reduce the number of road mishaps and fatalities involving motorcycles and scooters.
Until now, ABS was required only in two-wheelers with engine capacities exceeding 125cc. As a result, around 40% of the two-wheelers currently sold in India do not come equipped with this crucial safety feature, leaving a large portion of riders more vulnerable to crashes, especially during sudden braking.
ABS technology works by preventing the wheels from locking when brakes are applied forcefully, particularly on slippery surfaces. This helps maintain steering control and minimizes skidding, thereby preventing a substantial number of accidents.
Government data from 2022 paints a grim picture: two-wheelers were involved in approximately 20% of the 1,51,997 road accidents recorded across the country. The Ministry believes that making ABS universal, regardless of engine class, could be a game changer in tackling these numbers.
The ministry is expected to issue formal guidelines and timelines for manufacturers to comply with the regulation, ensuring that safety does not remain a luxury feature but becomes a standard across all segments of two-wheelers sold in India.