Two-wheeler riders are snapping up helmets in the run up to the 48-hour deadline for implementation of the rule by transport authorities across Andhra Pradesh from November 1.
Automobile accessory dealers in city are upbeat over the spurt in sales of the headgear in last three days. “Increase in helmet sales in the last three days is very pronounced. There has been a steady rise and in last three days, I have sold 50-100 helmets each day,” says G. Kishore of Jayaprada Auto Sales Corporation near Big Bazar in Governorpet.
With the Transport Department authorities insisting on use of branded helmets, people are forced to buy the product from outlets of authorised dealers. Brands such as Steelbird, Studds and Vega which cost a minimum of Rs. 800 and go up to Rs. 2,000 and upwards, are moving fast.
“Tax exemption and direct billing by the manufacturing companies will reduce the cost by 30 per cent. Many customers are reluctant buyers who still want to wait and see if a court intervention or some miracle may stop the authorities from implementing the rule,” says Mr. Kishore who feels that if every two-wheeler rider uses the headgear, there may be a shortage of helmets.
“The Transport Department authorities who have been lenient with law-breakers so far are serious about implementing the helmet rule this time. This is reason why there is a rush at the retail outlets,” says Madhu from Vasavi Auto Parts on Museum Road in Governorpet area. He says there has been a 10-30 per cent spurt in sale of helmets in the last three days.
As part of the awareness drive, the DTC will hoist a giant balloon with slogans on helmet use written on it, at Indira Gandhi Municipal Stadium on Saturday
