Experts Call for Robust Regulatory Framework for Driverless Cars in India

Experts in India are calling for well-defined rules, regulations, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to guide the development and deployment of **autonomous vehicles (AVs)** in the country. As global progress in driverless technology accelerates, India still lacks a comprehensive framework to test or operate such vehicles on public roads. Specialists argue that without clear guidelines, innovation may slow down and safety risks may increase.

India’s **unique and complex traffic conditions**—dense roads, unpredictable driver behaviour, mixed vehicle types, and frequent pedestrian movement—make it essential to have stricter, India-specific rules. Experts say that any regulatory model must clearly define responsibilities in case of accidents, data collection norms, cybersecurity standards, and real-world testing protocols.

Another major concern is the **absence of national testing zones** where companies can experiment with AV technologies in controlled environments. Industry bodies want the government to establish pilot corridors, set uniform safety benchmarks, and provide clarity on liability when AI-driven systems fail.

Overall, the call for structured SOPs reflects the need to balance **innovation, safety, and accountability**. A proper regulatory blueprint would help India compete globally while ensuring secure and reliable autonomous mobility for the future.

---