Cart before horse: On India and vehicle-to-vehicle communication technology

📌 Summary:

• The Hindu editorial critically examines India's approach to Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) communication technology — arguing India is putting the "cart before horse"

• Context: Karnataka transport operators welcomed V2V communication mandate but sought government support for implementation; Centre considering V2V for new vehicles

• What is V2V: Vehicles share real-time data (speed, direction, braking, location) with nearby vehicles to prevent collisions and improve traffic flow

• "Cart before horse" critique: India lacks necessary supporting ecosystem — (1) Spectrum allocation: 5.9 GHz band needed for DSRC (Dedicated Short Range Communication) but allocated elsewhere in India; (2) Roadside infrastructure: no V2I (Vehicle-to-Infrastructure) towers; (3) Standardisation: no Indian standard for V2V protocols; (4) Training: drivers/fleet operators unprepared

• V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) requires V2V + V2I + V2P (pedestrian) integration — India has none of the latter

• Editorial urges: Finalize spectrum policy, develop roadside infrastructure, create Indian standards, fund pilot projects before mandating V2V

📌 UPSC Relevance:

• GS3: Emerging technology policy, smart mobility, road safety

📌 Prelims Facts:

• V2V: Uses DSRC (5.9 GHz) or C-V2X (Cellular) technology

• V2X: Vehicle-to-Everything (includes V2V, V2I, V2P, V2N)

• MoRTH: Ministry of Road Transport and Highways — nodal ministry for vehicle safety standards