The Traffic police workload has increased drastically as they were working hard to catch offenders who were not following the norms.
The state Transport department’s directive asking pillion riders to wear helmets has only created further chaos in the city. Mumbaikars many of whom were unaware of the rule had to pay fines for violating the norms. There was a heated argument between bike riders and traffic police-men as they were reluctant to pay fine. Many of them asked why the circular was issued in haste without inviting suggestions from citizens. The Traffic police workload too has increased drastically as they were working hard to catch offenders who were not following the norms. Already they have to work hard throughout the day to regulate the flow of traffic in the city. Mumbaikars wanted the state government to give sometime so that everyone purchases helmet and avoid paying fines. They also wanted the civic body to improve the condition of roads. Many of them were complaining about the poor condition of roads and pot holes which put motorists lives at risk.
On the other hand, helmet sellers were laughing their way to the bank as there has been a huge demand for them after the new directive was issued. Earlier only 40 to 50 helmets were sold but now dealers are selling 100 helmets daily.
“Our helmets are all ISI marked. There has been a rise in the number of customers visiting my shop daily for purchasing helmets” said Arvind Shah, a helmet vendor from Kandivali said.
“This rule will only benefit the helmet manufacturers lobby and people will have to face inconvenience as they will be harassed. Now, everyone will rush to buy substandard helmets which are readily available on the street” said Pratik Deshpande, a Borivali resident.
A marketing professional was asked to pay fine of Rs.100 for not wearing a helmet. He urged traffic police that he will soon purchase one. A woman was let off by issuing a warning to wear helmet the next time by the traffic police.
“With such a large number of two-wheeler riders yet to pick the habit of wearing helmets, it becomes difficult to stop two or three. There are many who do not even know about the rule,” said a policeman on the condition of anonymity from Akurli Road.
Another traffic policeman said, “People are unhappy with the new rule implemented by the government and are venting their frustration on us. We are only performing our duty. However citizens should realise that they should follow traffic rules and cooperate with the traffic police.”
Transport Minister Diwakar Raote said, “The helmet rule was already implemented in the state. Now, it has been made compulsory for pillion riders too for augmenting their safety. If anybody has a problem with the government’s order they can approach the court.”
Regional Transport Offices (RTO) have been directed to ask dealers to produce the proof of supplying two helmets to the rider at the time of registration, besides other documents.
