Centre Notifies Radar Speed Measurement Equipment Rules under Legal Metrology Act

To strengthen road safety and ensure fair enforcement of traffic rules, the Department of Consumer Affairs has officially notified rules for the use of radar equipment for measuring the speed of vehicles under the Legal Metrology (General) Rules, 2011. These rules will take effect from 1st July 2025, allowing adequate time for industries and law enforcement agencies to prepare for compliance.

Key Highlights

Radar Speed Enforcement

• Purpose: Improve road safety and transparency in speed enforcement through accurate, verified radar-based speed measurement systems.
• Effective Date: The rules will come into force from 1st July 2025.
• Mandatory Verification: All radar equipment used for measuring vehicle speed must be verified and stamped by Legal Metrology authorities.
• Accuracy and Calibration: Ensures the equipment is scientifically validated, accurate, calibrated, and tamper-proof.

International Standards

• Drafted in alignment with OIML R 91, an international standard for radar speed measuring devices.

Stakeholder Involvement

Consultations held with.

• State Legal Metrology Departments
• RRSLs (Regional Reference Standard Laboratories)
• Manufacturers

Consumer organizations

• Public Trust & Fair Penalties: Prevents wrongful fines and boosts public confidence in traffic enforcement mechanisms.
• Benefits to Industries: Promotes domestic manufacturing and increases export competitiveness by aligning with global norms.
• Support for Law Enforcement: Certified equipment enhances operational effectiveness, credibility, and evidence-based enforcement.

National Impact

• Supports data-driven traffic governance
• Reduces road fatalities
• Lowers infrastructure wear and tear
• Promotes economic sustainability

Technical Provisions

Covers

• Doppler radar technology
• Environmental stability
• Tamper resistance
• Precise calibration standards

Broader Reform

• Part of India’s larger effort to modernize legal metrology infrastructure in public safety and enforcement.