The Helmet Association has lauded the Pune Regional Transport Office (RTO) for its decisive action to enhance road safety by mandating that dealers provide two helmets with every two-wheeler sold. This initiative, aligned with Rule 138 of the Motor Vehicles Act, aims to reduce fatalities and promote helmet usage among riders.
Mr. Rajeev Kapur, President of the Helmet Association and MD of Steelbird Helmet, expressed strong support for the move. “The RTO’s directive to ensure that each two-wheeler buyer receives two helmets is a critical step in reinforcing the importance of helmet usage. This not only underscores the need for safety but also ensures that both riders and pillion passengers are protected,” Kapur stated.
Highlighting the necessity of genuine ISI-certified helmets, Kapur pointed out the prevalence of counterfeit helmets in the market. “Many dealers provide substandard helmets marked as ISI-certified, which are unsafe. This rule mandates the provision of authentic, BIS-certified helmets, thereby ensuring riders’ safety,” he explained.
The urgency of such measures is evident from the rising road accident statistics. In 2021, 52,416 two-wheeler accidents resulted in 22,786 deaths, which increased to 63,115 accidents and 25,228 fatalities in 2022. These figures demonstrate the critical need for stricter compliance with helmet regulations to save lives.
Kapur emphasized fostering a safety culture, stating, “Helmets are life-saving devices. We urge dealers and buyers to fully support this initiative. Together, we can make our roads safer.”
The Helmet Association is ready to collaborate with the RTO, traffic police, and other stakeholders to raise awareness and ensure the successful implementation of this mandate.