As many as 180 motorcyclists without helmets died in accidents from January 1, 2012 to May this year. Over 3,000 people, including pillion riders, were injured in accidents in the city during the period.
Bangalore city accounts for 800 accident deaths annually while nearly 4,000 people are injured every year with many of them left with permanent disabilities.
The outgoing Additional Commissioner of Police (Traffic), M.A. Saleem, said in order to reduce fatalities in accidents, the Bangalore city traffic police were planning to crack down on motorcyclists riding without helmets. “One of the reasons for fatalities, especially of two-wheeler riders, is lack of awareness about wearing helmets, which is the most effective safety mechanism,” he said, while launching an awareness campaign on helmets on Saturday.
He said that wearing helmets would reduce the chances of serious head injury by 80 per cent and fatalities by 50 per cent. Nearly 45 per cent of victims of road accidents are generally two-wheeler riders. Mr. Saleem said first-time offenders would be slapped with a fine of Rs. 100 and second-time offenders would be fined Rs. 300, followed by suspension of driving license with fine.
A motorcycle rally by traffic wardens has been organised in the city to create awareness about using helmets. Hoardings, banners and placards will be installed in prominent places to educate commuters. Talks by traffic experts are also being organised in colleges.
Director-General and Inspector-General of Police Lalrokhuma Pachau, outgoing City Police Commissioner B.G. Jyothi Prakash Mirji, Joint Commissioner of Transport R.V. D’Souza and traffic expert M.N. Srihari were present.
