Helmet notice
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, September 06 2019: In view of the rampant failure to follow the guidelines that two-wheeler drivers wear helmets, leading to increased incidents of avoidable deaths and fatal injuries in road accidents as well as with the objective of creating public awareness and increasing road safety for the public, the State Transport Department is planning to conduct a special road safety drive with immediate effect till September 25 .

A notice issued by the Chief Secretary today mentioned that as per the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act 1988, use of head gear is compulsory, manufacturers/dealers of two wheeler vehicles have to supply at least one protective head gear/helmet to all the buyers (with some exceptions) and riders should wear helmets that meet the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and having standard mark/stickers showing that they are safety approved.

The notice continued that the system of 'No helmet no petrol' was even introduced in all the retail petrol outlets of IOC/BPCL.

However, despite these regulations, the rate of compliance has been really low, it mentioned adding that non-compliance to the said rules is not only a violation of the relevant Act but also leads to increased incidents of road accidents.

To ensure compliance of the rules by the dealers, it mentioned that it will be necessary for the dealers to submit BIS standard certification at the time of registration for issue of Trade Certificate and those who fail to comply will have their trade certificate cancelled by the Transport Department.

It continued that a special road safety drive will be carried out immediately till September 25 and instructed all two wheeler owners/drivers to purchase necessary helmets by September 24 .

The drive will help in increasing compliance of road safety instructions issued by the State Government from time to time and prevent incidents of casualties and fatal injuries, it added.

Two wheeler drivers not using helmets after the drive period (September 25) will be fined Rs 1000 as per the MVA 1988, it warned.

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