Three-Point Middle Seatbelt To Get Mandatory For Cars in India Soon

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has been concentrating on the safety of Indian-made automobiles. Nitin Gadkari, the Minister of MoRTH previously stated that the government will soon make six-airbags compulsory in vehicles carrying up to eight people. According to reports, India's government may soon make three-point seatbelts mandatory in cars with a middle seat.

Most cars in the country now have four three-point seatbelts or Y seatbelts for two front and two rear passengers, with an aircraft-style or lap belt for the middle seat.

Also Read: Mahindra XUV700 AX7 Smart Trim - Features, Engine Options And Price

Within a month, the MoRTH is likely to produce a draft notification recommending that automakers make a three-point seatbelt for the centre rear seat mandatory. However, before making it a law, the government will solicit public input and proposals.

The government's goal is to raise the overall safety ratings of passenger cars produced in India. Except for a few models, the ministry discovered that no car in India has three-point seatbelts for the passenger positioned in the middle seat at the back. They only have a lap belt, which is discovered to be ineffective in the event of a collision, putting the passenger in grave danger. According to experts, a large part of the blame should be put on passenger behaviour, as nearly 90% of Indian car passengers do not use rear seatbelts at all.

Also Read: 2022 Maruti Baleno Facelift Bookings Open - Get's Segment First HUD

This comes after the Ministry of Roads and Transportation (MoRTH) issued a draught notification on January 14th, requesting public input on a proposed rule that would require all carmakers to include six airbags in all vehicles.

Swedish Automaker, Volvo was the first manufacturer in the automotive industry to create the three-point seatbelt and began using it in their cars in 1959, when it was patented. However, in the interest of public safety, the corporation opted to keep the patent open.

What are your views on governments' move to mandating three-point middle seatbelts? Do let us know in the comment section. For more such news, join 91 Wheels WhatsApp and 91 Wheels Telegram groups to know more about vehicles, conduct discussions on your favourite ride, and much more! Also, you can subscribe to our Youtube channel for video content on the latest from the world of cars and motorcycles.