NEW DELHI: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has proposed new rules to introduce two-wheeled ambulances across the country. The draft notification aims to create a legal framework for these vehicles so they can provide faster emergency medical help in remote areas where regular ambulances often cannot reach.
At present, two-wheeled ambulances are not recognised as a separate vehicle category under the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. Because of this, there are no national standards for their design, safety, registration, approval, patient transport, or fitness inspections.
The proposed amendments will adopt Automotive Industry Standard AIS-209 Part 1:2026 to set construction and functional requirements for life support two-wheeled road ambulances. Vehicles in the L2 category manufactured on or after October 1, 2027 must follow these standards. Emergency top lights fitted on these ambulances must also comply from the same date.
The new standard defines a two-wheeled road ambulance as an L2-category vehicle fitted with an ambulance accessory unit or patient-conveyance system. It includes important safety measures covering vehicle stability, braking performance, parking brake efficiency, rear visibility, secure coupling, emergency warning devices, and better visibility on roads.
State governments will decide where these ambulances may operate. They will be registered as transport vehicles and must renew their fitness certificates every two years.
According to ministry officials, the proposed framework will improve safety, accountability, and emergency medical services. It is expected to reduce response times, strengthen last-mile healthcare access, and help patients receive quicker treatment in places where larger ambulances face movement or access problems.
If approved, the rules will encourage the safe use of two-wheeled ambulances and support better emergency care for people living in difficult and underserved regions across India. The proposal fills a policy gap by creating clear rules for manufacturing, testing, registration, and operation. Common standards can improve quality, ensure reliable equipment and build public confidence.
Fills key gap
The changes are now open for public feedback
Faster medical transport could save valuable time
The proposed framework will improve accountability
It fills a policy gap by creating clear rules
