Southern States - Andhra Pradesh   

Helmets made compulsory

By Our Staff Reporter

HYDERABAD FEB. 19. The wearing of helmets by both riders and pillion-riders of two-wheelers has been made compulsory throughout the State.

The Transport Department has taken the decision in this regard based on a High Court order asking it to implement and enforce the wearing of protective headgear (helmets) by two-wheeler riders and pillion-riders `strictly.'

The department has, however, not fixed any date for the implementation of the order although it stated in a press release on Wednesday that it shall come into force `henceforth.' Violators of the norm will be penalised by the authorities under provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act.

When contacted, C.L.N. Gandhi, Joint Transport Commissioner, told The Hindu that `some time' will be given for two-wheeler users to acquire helmets.

The statement added that the court held as ultra vires a GO issued in December 1989 making the wearing of helmets optional, and ruled that the practice was mandatory and in public interest. The court had disposed of a public interest litigation pleading for the use of protective headgear conforming to set standards by two-wheeler drivers and riders.

The release added that thousands of commuters on two-wheelers died of head injuries in accidents every year as they did not wear helmets.

Two-wheelers are vulnerable to accidents as they can lose balance easily or can fall when the front wheel bumped into a small stone.

Neurosurgeons have often advocated wearing of helmets which could save thousands of lives. The doctors, social organisations, transport and police officials have also requested the Government to make wearing of helmets by two-wheeler drivers and pillion-riders compulsory.

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