Panaji:
The Directorate of Transport has issued a firm directive to all owners of public vehicles — including passenger buses and tourist taxis — to install Vehicle Location Tracking (VLT) devices and emergency (panic) buttons by November 30, 2025.
This move aims to enhance passenger safety and ensure real-time monitoring of public transport vehicles operating across Goa.
Mandatory Safety Compliance
According to Transport Director Pravimal Abhishek, all public service vehicles must be equipped with functional tracking systems and panic buttons by the deadline. Authorities will verify the installation during fitness renewals and surprise inspections.
During recent inspections, the department observed that several vehicles either lacked these devices or had non-functional ones. To address this, the department reaffirmed its compliance requirements under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 and the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways’ 2018 directive.
Technical Standards and Responsibilities
The devices must comply with the AIS-140 standard, which specifies hardware and performance guidelines for vehicle tracking and emergency systems.
The department emphasized that installation must be handled by authorized manufacturers or dealers. Once installed, the details of the devices must be updated on the VAHAN portal.
Strict Action for Non-Compliance
Officials have warned that surprise checks will be conducted, and strict action will be taken against vehicle owners who fail to meet the requirements by the November 30 deadline.
This initiative is part of Goa’s broader effort to ensure passenger safety, accountability, and technological modernization of public transport.
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