Actor Karthika Nair has been roped in by the City police to make motorcyclists realise the need to wear helmets and follow traffic rules.
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The actor, along with City Police Commissioner H. Venkatesh, flagged off Operation Helmet in front of the Kanakakunnu Palace on Monday. Motorcyclists along the Museum-Vellayambalam road wearing helmets with chin straps fastened were given certificates of appreciation by Mr. Venkatesh and Ms. Karthika.
The pocket appreciation certificate signed by the Commissioner states that the motorcyclist is a “Responsible Rider.” The certificate has emergency numbers on other side.
The erring motorists were handed over a badge with a golden safety pin with the query “And you think a helmet is uncomfortable?” in the backdrop of the photograph of an injured road accident victim and ‘No excuses, wear a helmet”. On the other side, there are instructions such as ‘don’t drink and drive,’ ‘avoid using mobile while driving’ and other rules and regulations.
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Many erring motorists were let off with the warning that they will be booked next time if they do not wear the headgear properly and do not follow traffic rules.
A pocket pamphlet was given to the riders on the rules they have to follow. Operation Helmet has been jointly launched by the UDS Group, Kerala Police. Students of the Sai Krishna School and the staff of the UDS joined the police personnel in the effort.
Mr. Venkatesh said the drive was launched in view of the increasing road accidents in the city involving motorcyclists who did not wear helmet and flouted traffic rules. The actor said the initiative was a small step with big impact.
Assistant Commissioner of Traffic, North, T. Mohanan Nair, Circle Inspector P. Niyas and Corporate Director, UDS, Prasad Manjali attended.
The awareness drive will continue in select traffic points in the capital till August 13, Mr. Venkatesh added.
Actor speaks to riders on the necessity of wearing helmets and abiding by traffic rules