Two-Wheel Road Ambulances to Gain Official Status from 2027

A proposal submitted by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways seeks to officially recognize two‑wheel road ambulances as a distinct vehicle class. The move aims to slash emergency response times and improve the "last‑mile" delivery of medical care, especially in rural, remote and mountainous districts where conventional ambulances face accessibility hurdles.

The draft outlines that, starting 1 October 2027, any EL2‑category two‑wheel ambulance must meet the AIS‑209 (Part 1):2026 criteria covering chassis strength, patient‑care equipment, and standardized emergency lighting. States will have the discretion to demarcate service zones, ensuring that deployments reflect local needs while adhering to mandatory biennial fitness certification.