Speed Limits

Rule: Certain roads have marked speed limits. You are not permitted to exceed this speed.

• • In India, the design speed of most highways is 60 kph. It is not advisable to exceed this speed on turns.

  • Expressways may have higher posted limits, going up to 100 kph for some. Again, this is based on the design speed of the road, and it is set for safety reasons.

  • Speed limits on divided urban roads are usually 50 kph for cars. On undivided roads, this may be 30.

  • Residential areas are 25 kph unless there is a sign stating otherwise. 

  • Main roads in housing colonies are 40 kph if they are double lane on each side and also have a divider or continuous centre line.

  • School areas are 15 kph.

Traffic Logic: Speed limits are set based on traffic conditions on that road, to ensure road safety. For example, highway speed limits are quite high, while in school areas they are low.

Exceeding the speed limit endangers pedestrians and other road users, as well as the speeder. The faster the vehicle, the less control, the more the chances of a crash, and the more severe the injuries and property damage.

Some weak bridges also have low speed limits, as a faster vehicle puts more load on the structure.

Driving hints: If visibility is low, e.g. at night or in rain/light fog, it is advisable to stay at least 10 kph below the posted daytime limit. In heavy fog or very heavy rain, you may have to slow down to a creep.