J P Nair, Managing Director, VIS Group, shares insights with Richa Tyagi, on the evolution of the TrafficInfraTech Expo, highlighting its role in revolutionising India’s mobility landscape.
As the partner to the TrafficInfraTech expo and the concurrent shows, what in your opinion is the biggest shift in the mobility landscape?
When we started TrafficInfraTech in 2010, the focus was primarily on safety and security. Over the years, the show has evolved significantly, embracing advanced technologies. Today, it showcases a broad spectrum of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) solutions, including GNSS, ANPR systems, vehicle motion technologies, and more.
The core concept of the show is to make mobility safer and smarter. Over the past 12 years, we have witnessed a steady influx of new technologies that enhance the ease of movement. GNSS has taken centre stage this year, with several exhibitors presenting innovative solutions. Even Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has emphasised the importance of adopting cost-effective technologies that deliver optimal results.
International companies participating in the event have brought technologies tailored to India’s unique needs, highlighting the show’s relevance. This platform brings together key stakeholders, including government officials, policy makers, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), traffic police, municipal corporations, and other industry leaders.
It provides a valuable opportunity for these stakeholders to explore and evaluate technologies that can be effectively implemented in India. TrafficInfraTech has truly become a convergence point for collaboration, innovation, and progress in smart mobility solutions.
How would you rate the participation in 2024 and what is the exhibitor mix like on the ground?
In 2024, the event leaned more towards technology-oriented solutions rather than just products. It focuses on ITMS, safety, security, and tolling. For instance, companies like Vispro and Texel showcased advanced GNSS solutions, while other exhibitors presented innovative crash barriers designed to minimise damage during accidents and save lives.
How have nodal agencies and government representatives extended their support to ensure real-world change?
Their support has been instrumental in ensuring real-world change. Since the inception of the show, we have consistently received support from key organisations such as MoRTH, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), and the Central Road Research Institute (CRRI), along with other certification bodies responsible for roads and infrastructure. Organisations like NHAI and CRRI have been actively involved, reflecting a collaborative effort to drive progress.
What’s particularly encouraging is the government’s proactive approach and willingness to embrace change. This motivates us to introduce new technologies and encourages companies with innovative solutions to participate in the event.
A highlight this year was the visit of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, which served as a tremendous boost for the entire industry. His engagement with the exhibitors and genuine interest in their solutions underscored the importance of such platforms. He spent substantial time exploring the exhibits, further reinforcing the government’s commitment to advancing mobility solutions in India.
What trends do you foresee in traffic management, parking management, and road infrastructure solutions that could revolutionise urban development to meet modern-day requirements?
The core objective of this show is to enhance the efficiency of movement for both people and goods. When the movement becomes faster and smoother, it directly impacts the nation’s productivity and economy. Improved transportation reduces fuel consumption, including diesel and gas, which in turn helps lower pollution levels. This makes it crucial to develop and maintain high-quality roads and implement advanced technologies that ensure safety while easing vehicle movement. The good news is that these solutions are already available in India, and we take great pride in the contributions of Indian companies. Many of them have developed exceptional products that meet international standards, showcasing India’s growing capability in this domain.
How does VIS Group facilitate collaboration between different stakeholders?
VIS Group has partnered with Messe Frankfurt, a globally renowned company, to elevate this event to new heights. Additionally, our year-round engagement with stakeholders and our magazine, TrafficInfraTech, helps bridge the gap between government requirements and technology providers.
What is your vision for the future of India’s traffic, road, and parking infrastructure over the next decade? How are you enhancing awareness and engagement?
Over the next decade, India’s traffic, road, and parking infrastructure is poised to achieve standards comparable to those in Europe and the United States. We anticipate a transformative shift in technology, innovation, and implementation within the next 10-15 years. This evolution will be driven by collaborative efforts from the government and technology companies, both working towards introducing advanced yet economically viable solutions that enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
At VIS Group, raising awareness and fostering engagement is a year-round effort. Our team maintains ongoing communication with stakeholders beyond the exhibition events. Through initiatives like the TrafficInfraTech magazine, we stay closely connected with government bodies to understand their needs and relay this information to technology providers. This ensures that solutions align with the government’s vision and address real-world challenges effectively.
A word on the new entrants and challenger brands that may have impressed?
This is the perfect time for newcomers to enter the mobility sector. Over the next 10-15 years, this industry is poised for immense growth, offering significant opportunities for innovation and success. ACI