The use of airbags in all cars may soon become mandatory. This will push up the costs by Rs30,000 to Rs40,000. Earlier the Government has made seatbelts usage compulsory.

Indian car manufacturers may have to fit airbags in all cars. Presently airbags are company fitted in the high-end segment. The Ministry of Textiles has sent a proposal to the Planning Commission to make airbags mandatory to improve the use of nylon industrial yarn. The matter is now being discussed by the Ministry for road transport and highways and the heavy industries ministry.

The Textile Ministry made this suggestion following the recommendations of an Expert Committee on Technical Textiles. They say the mandatory usage of airbags will enhance the use of nylon industrial yarn. Countries like US, Japan, Europe and Australia have already made the use of airbags compulsory.

Indian Auto companies like M&M, and Maruti are making the transition to airbags as they gear up to enter international markets to comply with safety regulations. But manufacturers are also worried about higher costs.