Uttar Pradesh Enforces Mandatory Helmet Sales with Two-Wheeler Purchases
In a significant move to enhance road safety, the Uttar Pradesh transport department has issued a new directive that requires automobile dealers to sell two ISI-certified helmets to customers purchasing motorcycles and scooters. This order, circulated on January 14, aims to ensure compliance with existing safety regulations and reduce accidents involving two-wheeler riders.
New Order Details and Implementation
The transport department has directed all deputy transport commissioners (DTCs), Regional Transport Offices (RTOs), and Assistant Regional Transport Officers (ARTOs) in enforcement and administration roles to oversee the implementation of this rule. According to the order, dealers must now include the sale of two helmets as part of the vehicle purchase process.
Key requirements include:
- Dealers must upload receipts for the helmets sold on the department's portal alongside the vehicle registration documents as proof of compliance.
- Registration authorities will verify these helmet sale receipts before approving the registration of the two-wheeler.
- Enforcement officers will conduct random inspections at dealerships to ensure adherence to the new mandate.
Addressing Compliance Gaps in Helmet Usage
While the Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR) already mandate that both riders and pillion riders wear ISI-certified helmets, full compliance has been elusive despite various enforcement efforts. The transport department identified this gap and decided to shift some responsibility to two-wheeler dealers.
By requiring dealers to sell two helmets, the department aims to raise awareness about the rule and make it harder for buyers to avoid purchasing helmets for pillion riders. Sources within the department noted that this initiative will help educate the public on the importance of helmet use for all occupants of two-wheelers.
Dealer Responsibilities and Legal Implications
Dealers are now obligated to provide detailed information about the helmets sold, including the manufacturing company, model and code numbers, date of manufacture, and personal details of the purchaser. This ensures traceability and quality control.
Under the CMVR, failure to wear an ISI-certified helmet can result in a fine of Rs 1,000 under section 194-D and a three-month suspension of the driver's license. The new rule is expected to bolster enforcement and reduce such violations by integrating helmet sales directly into the vehicle purchase process.
This proactive measure by the Uttar Pradesh transport department reflects a broader effort to improve road safety standards and protect two-wheeler users from preventable injuries. By leveraging dealerships as points of compliance, the state hopes to achieve higher adherence to helmet laws and foster a culture of safety among motorists.
