Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024: PM Modi Announces 1,000 Modern Facilities For Highway Drivers
In response, the government is formulating a comprehensive plan to develop contemporary infrastructure, including buildings equipped with facilities
Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a groundbreaking initiative on Friday, signaling the government's proactive efforts to address the pressing needs of truck and taxi drivers traversing the national highways. The ambitious scheme is set to establish 1,000 modern facilities in the inaugural phase, catering to the welfare of these drivers by providing essential amenities such as resting areas, toilets, and drinking water.
The announcement, made during the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024, shed light on the pivotal role that drivers play in the mobility sector and the challenges they encounter, particularly the lack of proper rest facilities during their extended hours on the road. This deficiency not only impacts their well-being but also poses a potential risk of accidents. In response, the government is formulating a comprehensive plan to develop contemporary infrastructure, including buildings equipped with facilities like food services, clean drinking water, sanitary facilities, secure parking, and rest areas, strategically positioned along all national highways.
#WATCH | Delhi: At Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024, PM Modi says "The drivers who drive trucks and taxis are an integral part of our social and economic system. Often these drivers drive trucks continuously for hours and hours, they do not have time for rest. The Central… pic.twitter.com/uJAf0C9kiE — ANI (@ANI) February 2, 2024
The initiative aims to roll out 1,000 such centers across the country in the initial phase, signifying a significant step towards enhancing the quality of life for truck and taxi drivers. Beyond mere convenience, the focus is on improving overall travel conditions, ultimately contributing to better health and accident prevention within the industry.
Prime Minister Modi, in his address, stressed the government's awareness of the challenges faced by truck drivers and their families. He advocated for a holistic approach to comprehensively tackle these concerns, aligning with broader efforts to prioritize the well-being of drivers and enhance their working conditions. As part of this holistic approach, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has mandated that all new trucks manufactured on or after October 1, 2025, must be equipped with air-conditioned cabins for drivers, reflecting the government's commitment to raising standards in the transportation sector.
This announcement serves as a testament to the government's dedication to ensuring the safety and welfare of drivers, a crucial component of the transportation sector. The Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024, spanning three days and featuring over 800 exhibitors from more than 50 countries, emerges as a significant platform. It showcases cutting-edge technologies, sustainable solutions, and breakthroughs in mobility, fostering innovation and collaboration within the industry. With the participation of 28 vehicle manufacturers and over 600 auto component manufacturers, the event signifies a collective effort to drive positive transformations in the mobility landscape.
