The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) held the second Summit on Automotive Future Advancement in Road Safety (SAFAR) in Mumbai under the theme “Drive to Zero: Strengthening Policies, Preparedness, and Partnerships.” The event is part of SIAM Sustainable Mobility Week 2026 and aims to advance efforts to reduce road fatalities.
Running from February 16–19, the initiative brings together policymakers, automotive companies, emergency response experts, researchers, NGOs, and civil society groups to discuss road safety, decarbonisation, circular economy practices, post-crash care, and regulatory improvements.
Alongside conference sessions, SIAM’s Sustainable Mobility Zone is showcasing new vehicle platforms, safety technologies, alternative fuels, and infrastructure innovations designed to make transportation safer and more sustainable.
The opening session highlighted collaboration between government and industry to improve road safety systems. Speakers included Dr Rajshekhar Joshi, Vice Chairman of Sethu Aayog, and Sanjay Bandopadhyaya from the Supreme Court Committee on Road Safety.
SIAM Executive Director Prashant K Banerjee emphasized that India’s growing automotive sector must be matched by stronger road safety efforts. He urged students and young citizens to take an active role in improving road behavior and awareness.
Dr Joshi called for mission-driven education and greater use of artificial intelligence to identify accident-prone locations and strengthen response systems. Bandopadhyaya stressed accountability among states and coordination among police, health, and transport agencies.
Industry leaders also highlighted the need for safer infrastructure, improved vehicle technologies, better licensing systems, and stronger enforcement. Experts discussed solutions such as advanced driver assistance systems, driver monitoring, crash-barrier testing, and improved post-accident response procedures.
SIAM also released a policy paper titled “Advancing Road Safety Through Systemic Policy Reform.” Technical sessions covered connected safety systems, digital radio innovations, regulatory updates, driver assistance technologies, and data-driven road safety strategies. Workshops addressed trauma response and life-saving measures after accidents. The summit concluded with panel discussions on education, data sharing, community-focused technologies, and partnerships aimed at achieving zero fatalities.
As part of Sustainable Mobility Week, SIAM will also host the 4th International Conference on Sustainable Circularity and the 1st International Conference on Automotive Material Compliance & Sustainability, continuing conversations on responsible manufacturing and future mobility.
The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers is the national association representing India’s major vehicle and engine manufacturers. The organization works to support industry growth while promoting safety, environmental protection, and sustainable mobility initiatives.
