Moscow, Russia – On September 24, 2024, Russian and Indian officials came together for the second meeting of the Russian-Indian Working Group on Roads and Intelligent Transport Systems. The high-level talks, co-chaired by Anurag Jain, Secretary of India’s Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, and Dmitry Zverev, Russia’s Deputy Minister of Road Transport, focused on deepening bilateral cooperation in cutting-edge transport technologies and infrastructure development.
A key focus of the meeting was the exchange of expertise in road and bridge construction, with both countries discussing the potential for joint research in advanced construction materials and techniques. The dialogue also explored avenues for mutual investment in transport infrastructure, highlighting shared goals in expanding sustainable and efficient transport networks.
Russia’s delegation introduced a proposal to implement a “Barrier-free Toll Collection System,” utilizing satellite navigation technology. This innovative approach, developed through Russian and Indian technological cooperation, promises to revolutionize toll collection by eliminating the need for physical barriers. India, meanwhile, underscored its plans to implement a multiparty interoperable toll system, with upcoming bids expected to attract global participation, including Russian companies.
The meeting also touched on the future of autonomous and unmanned transport. Both sides expressed keen interest in collaborating on practical solutions for the use of highly automated vehicles in freight transport. With both nations embracing the future of smart logistics, the exchange of insights on autonomous vehicle technology is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the transportation landscape.
In the realm of capacity building, the two parties agreed to explore partnerships between the Russian University of Transport and India’s Academy of Highway Engineers (IAHE). This collaboration would focus on knowledge-sharing initiatives and skill development, aimed at fostering the next generation of experts in transport engineering and intelligent systems.
As Russia and India continue to strengthen ties in road and transport innovation, this meeting marks a significant step forward in their joint efforts to pioneer intelligent transportation solutions on a global scale.
