1. Economic Drain: A study by the Indian Foundation of Transport Research and Training (IFTRT) unveils that tyre-related issues contribute to around 30% of unscheduled downtime in India's trucking industry. This downtime translates into staggering financial losses, with estimates pegging an annual loss exceeding INR 10,000 crores due to tyre-related incidents.
2. Fuel Consumption: Under inflated tyres contribute to increased rolling resistance, leading to elevated fuel consumption. The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) reveals that for every 10% decrease in tyre pressure, fuel efficiency can plummet by as much as 1-2%, resulting in millions of liters of squandered fuel annually.
3. Safety Hazards: Beyond the financial toll, tyre deflation poses grave safety risks for drivers, passengers, and fellow road users. Data from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) indicates that a significant portion of truck accidents in India stem from tyre blowouts or loss of control due to under inflated tyres.
Addressing the Issue:
Thankfully, combating tyre deflation need not be an insurmountable challenge. Simple yet effective measures can significantly mitigate its impact and unlock potential savings for the trucking and logistics sector:
1. Regular Maintenance: Instituting a proactive tyre maintenance regimen is paramount. Fleet operators should prioritize routine checks for tyre pressure, tread wear, and signs of damage. Investing in advanced tyre monitoring systems can streamline this process, providing real-time alerts for potential issues.
2. Technology Integration: Embracing technology-driven solutions such as Automatic Tyre Deflation and Inflation Systems (ATDIS) can revolutionize tyre management practices. These systems properly inflate and deflate the tyre upon reaching the set pressure, increasing tyre life, reducing downtime, and enhancing fuel efficiency.
Conclusion
In the ever-evolving realm of Indian trucking and logistics, every efficiency gain is consequential. By confronting the silent culprit of tyre deflation, the industry can unlock substantial savings, bolster safety standards, and elevate overall operational efficiency. It's imperative to acknowledge the concealed costs of tyre neglect and take proactive strides toward a more sustainable and prosperous future.