Question : BAN ON LEFT HAND DRIVEN VEHICLES



(a) whether the Government propose to ban all existing left hand driven vehicles;

(b) if so, the details thereof; and

(c) if not, the reasons therefor?

Answer given by the minister

MINISTER OF STATE FOR HEAVY INDUSTRIES AND PUBLIC ENTERPRISES (DR. VALLABHBHAI KATHIRIA)

(a) to (c): According to the provisions of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, vehicles as are type approved have to be fitted with right hand steering along with associated controls. In respect of imported vehicles, Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has notified on 31st March, 2001 that all imported vehicles (new/used) shall have right hand steering and controls except for the purpose of certification under Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989, Defence requirements and R&D by the vehicle manufacturers. However, limited number of vehicles of imported origin with left hand steering and controls, which have been imported against special provisions of the baggage Rules or other provisions of the then Import Policy are operating in the country. As per information received from the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways there is no proposal to ban plying of existing left hand driven vehicles.