Maharashtra Traffic Police Directed to Wear Helmets While on Duty
In a significant move aimed at enhancing road safety, the state traffic chief of Maharashtra has issued a stringent circular instructing all traffic police personnel across the state to wear helmets while operating two-wheelers during their duties. Failure to comply with this directive will result in disciplinary action, underscoring the seriousness of the mandate.
Circular Issued by Additional Director General of Police
The circular, which was formally signed by Additional Director General of Police Pravin Salunke, was released on Thursday. It highlights a critical concern regarding road fatalities in Maharashtra, noting that approximately 35% to 40% of victims in fatal crashes annually are bike riders or their occupants. This statistic underscores the urgent need for improved safety measures among those who enforce traffic laws.
Enforcement Campaigns Found Lacking in Most Divisions
The circular further points out that, with the exception of Mumbai and Nagpur, enforcement campaigns promoting helmet-wearing have not been carried out satisfactorily by traffic personnel in other divisions across the state. This gap in compliance has raised alarms about the effectiveness of current road safety initiatives and the need for uniform adherence to helmet regulations.
Key Points from the Circular:
- Mandatory Helmet Use: All traffic police officers must wear helmets while riding two-wheelers as part of their official duties.
- Action for Non-Compliance: Personnel who fail to adhere to this rule will face strict disciplinary measures.
- Safety Statistics: The directive is based on data showing that bike riders account for a significant portion of road fatalities in Maharashtra.
- Regional Disparities: Enforcement efforts have been inconsistent, with only Mumbai and Nagpur showing satisfactory results in helmet-wearing campaigns.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to lead by example and reinforce the importance of helmet use among the general public. By ensuring that traffic police themselves follow safety protocols, the state aims to reduce road accidents and promote a culture of responsible riding across Maharashtra.
