Centre Notifies Radar Speed Measurement Equipment Rules under Legal Metrology Act

To enhance road safety and fairness in speed enforcement, the Indian government has notified new rules for radar-based speed measuring devices under the Legal Metrology Rules, effective from 1st July 2025. These rules mandate verification and stamping by legal metrology authorities.

In a major move aimed at improving road safety and ensuring fair enforcement of traffic regulations, the Department of Consumer Affairs has officially notified new rules under the Legal Metrology (General) Rules, 2011, governing the use of radar equipment for measuring vehicle speed. The rules, which will take effect from July 1, 2025, are expected to enhance transparency, accuracy, and public trust in speed enforcement across the country.

Key Highlights of the Radar Speed Enforcement Rules:

• Mandatory Verification: All radar-based speed measuring equipment must be verified and stamped by Legal Metrology authorities before use. This ensures that only scientifically validated, tamper-proof, and accurately calibrated systems are deployed for enforcement.

• Alignment with International Standards: The rules are designed in line with OIML R 91, the globally recognized standard for radar speed measuring devices, enabling Indian manufacturers to boost export competitiveness and meet international benchmarks.

• Stakeholder Consultations: The government consulted a wide range of stakeholders during the drafting process, including:

  • State Legal Metrology Departments

  • RRSLs (Regional Reference Standard Laboratories)

  • Radar equipment manufacturers

  • Consumer organizations

• Public Confidence and Fair Penalties: By mandating certified equipment, the initiative aims to prevent wrongful fines and build public confidence in the integrity of traffic enforcement systems.

• Support for Law Enforcement: Verified radar systems will equip enforcement agencies with credible, evidence-based tools, enhancing operational effectiveness and reliability in court proceedings.

Technical Specifications:

The rules cover:

• Doppler radar technology

• Environmental stability and tamper resistance

• Precise calibration and verification protocols

National Impact:

This reform is part of India’s broader effort to modernize its legal metrology infrastructure and strengthen public safety mechanisms. The benefits are expected to be far-reaching:

• Reduction in road accidents and fatalities

• Data-driven traffic governance

• Decreased infrastructure wear and tear

• Greater economic and environmental sustainability

A senior official from the Department of Consumer Affairs stated, “These rules mark a pivotal step in ensuring that speed enforcement in India is fair, transparent, and rooted in scientific accuracy. With global standards as our benchmark, we are also creating new opportunities for domestic innovation and international trade.”

As the July 2025 implementation date approaches, law enforcement agencies and manufacturers are being encouraged to align their systems and processes with the new compliance framework.