In a major move aimed at enhancing road safety and fairness in traffic enforcement, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution has notified new rules concerning radar-based speed measurement devices. The announcement, made on April 18, 2025, states that these rules will come into effect from July 1, 2025, giving ample time for manufacturers and law enforcement agencies to comply.
Under the updated Legal Metrology (General) Rules, 2011, all radar speed measuring equipment used in traffic enforcement must be verified and stamped by Legal Metrology authorities. This ensures that the devices are accurate, legally compliant, and calibrated for consistent use.
The rules were formulated with technical insights from international standard OIML R 91, and after consultations with various stakeholders, including State Legal Metrology Departments, manufacturers, consumer organizations, and laboratories.
Key Highlights:
- Improved Road Safety: Ensures accurate speed monitoring, reducing accidents and unfair penalties.
- Enhanced Public Trust: Certified equipment means reliable and transparent enforcement.
- Support for Industry: Provides a clear regulatory and technical framework, aligning with global standards and boosting export potential.
- Effective Policing: Law enforcement can rely on scientifically validated tools, increasing operational efficiency.
- Data-Driven Governance: Helps build a modern traffic management system while reducing infrastructure wear and associated costs.
These radar devices, often based on Doppler radar technology, will now need to meet stringent technical, safety, and anti-tampering standards. This marks a significant step in modernizing India’s legal metrology framework and reinforces a culture of technological reliability and accountability.
With this reform, the government reinforces its commitment to safer roads, fair enforcement, and smarter traffic governance across the country.
