Panaji (Goa): State traffic department has now made it mandatory for both rider and pillion to wear helmet. Those who are found without it would be fined as per Motor Vehicle Act.

Superintendent of Police (Traffic) Devesh Kumar Mahala has issued circular making it mandatory for rider and person who is sitting behind him to wear helmet.

“All two wheeler riders and pillion riders are appealed to compulsorily wear Helmet and fasten the helmet strap while riding two wheeler to save their precious lives in event of a motor vehicle accident. It may also be ensured that the helmet is of ISI mark,” says the circular which is going to change the two-wheeler driving scenario in the coastal state.

Justifying his orders, Mahala has said during the year 2016, out of total 336 persons killed in MV accidents, 228 were motorcyclists. On further analysis it is revealed that during the year 2016 out of 228 motorcyclists killed 186 were riders and 42 were pillion riders.

Likewise, during the year 2017, till May 31, 2017 out of total 103 motorcyclists killed 90 were riders and 13 were pillion riders.

“Had they worn proper Helmets most of the lives could have been saved. It has been noticed that not a single pillion rider wears helmet while riding on a motorcycle. As such, henceforth, apart from rider, the pillion rider  shall also be prosecuted for not wearing helmet while riding on a two-wheeler.

Team TNV