Tamil Nadu is set to make late-night travel safer for passengers. About 14 lakh public service vehicles, including buses, taxis, and autos, will be fitted with vehicle location tracking devices (VLTDs). These devices will be connected to a 24/7 control room at the Transport Department headquarters in Guindy, Chennai.The move follows recommendations from courts after the Nirbhaya case and a 2018 central government order. On 26th August 2025, State Home Secretary Dheeraj Kumar directed the Transport Department to ensure trackers in all public service vehicles. On 3rd September 2025, the department invited operators to supply and support the devices.
Transport Commissioner Gajalakshmi said VLTDs will be mandatory for fitness certificates, registrations, permits, and renewals. RTOs will check every operator for compliance during inspections.
The tracking devices will help monitor passenger safety, alert police in case of crimes, and provide quick assistance during accidents. Even trucks carrying goods will be required to have these devices. With this system, travelling late at night in Tamil Nadu will become much safer.