24-10-2020

Motor Vehicles Department has decided to step up awareness campaign against riding two-wheelers without helmets. The decision is a prelude to implementing a Centre�s notification asking states to suspend the licences of all those who are riding without helmets.

Even though the notification has said the state should suspend the licences with effect from October 1, the state has decided to increase the awareness campaign, along with slapping fine.

�Fine will be slapped on the two-wheeler riders without helmets. Along with that, we would also give awareness about the law, and that their licence will be suspended if they repeat the office,� MVD sources said. It is learnt that the department�s awareness will continue for the next two months, before strictly enforcing the law.

As per the amended Motor Vehicles Act, the licence will be suspended for three months for the first offence and will be cancelled if the offence is repeated. The licence of the rider will be suspended if the helmet is not worn by the pillion rider as well. The law breakers will also be sent for social service and road-safety classes. As per the amended act, those who are riding two-wheelers were also to pay a fine of Rs 1,000.

A committee constituted up on the instructions of the Supreme Court had held a sitting in the state last week, in which the committee was highly critical of the state. It is learnt that the committee was of the opinion that the state government is not enthusiastic in implementing the provisions of the act.