By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: In light of the rising number of fatalities among two-wheeler riders in road accidents, the Bihar government has decided to enhance the enforcement of mandatory helmet usage. Acting on directives from the Bihar Transport Department, a special campaign will be launched across all districts with the primary aim of increasing helmet compliance and promoting road safety.
Transport Secretary Sanjay Kumar Agrawal highlighted that 3,203 two-wheeler riders lost their lives in road accidents last year, with an additional 2,247 seriously injured. Of the fatalities, 882 riders and 507 passengers were not wearing helmets at the time of the accidents. Failure to wear helmets has been identified as the main cause of the majority of these deaths.
A review of road accident data reveals that most fatalities occur due to the absence of helmets. Driving without a helmet significantly increases the risk of severe head injuries, which can be fatal. In light of this, the government is enforcing helmet regulations with greater rigour, Agrawal explained.
District Magistrates and District Transport Officers across all districts have been instructed to raise awareness about helmet usage within their jurisdictions and to take steps to ensure compliance. Public awareness will be promoted through various initiatives, including helmet-check campaigns and road safety programmes.
The Transport and Traffic Police will conduct a dedicated helmet-check campaign throughout the state. As part of this initiative, traffic police teams will inspect two-wheeler drivers on the roads, and fines will be issued to those found without helmets. This campaign prioritises road safety and aims to instil a culture of rule adherence among the public.
“Your safety should always be your priority. Always wear a high-quality helmet while riding a two-wheeler. Helmets are crucial for protecting your life; neglecting to use one can endanger you,” stated Transport Secretary Agrawal.
Both the rider and pillion rider are required by law to wear helmets when riding a two-wheeler. However, despite this rule, many still fail to comply, putting their lives at risk. In most accidents, riders were found without helmets, which placed them in grave danger. The Transport Secretary emphasised that many deaths could have been prevented had helmets been worn.
