New Delhi, Oct. 15 -- The government plans to tighten checks and strictly enforce safety norms for tractor trailers, after several fatal accidents involving the vehicles that are used to transport small loads, two people aware of the matter said.

Many trailers used with tractors, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas, are made by unorganized manufacturers that don't follow safety norms. They lack proper braking systems, tail lights, reflectors, and suspension systems. A vast majority of these trailers are not even registered, and are technically plying illegally on public roads.

The ministry of road transport and highways, after consultations with tractor manufacturers and farm vehicle industries, is planning to step in and ensure ...