Bengaluru: The state government is likely to make helmet a must for two-wheeler pillion riders after the upcoming BBMP elections. According to sources at the state transport department, transport commissioner Mr. Ramegowda has already sent a proposal in this regard to the state government. But the state government is expected to take a decision to this effect only after the upcoming BBMP election as the decision may not go down well with the majority of the two-wheeler riders.
Speaking to this newspaper, an officer who is following the developments informed that the increasing number of accidents involving two-wheelers and the head injuries among the pillion riders has forced the state government and the transport department to come out with an action plan. As part of this, it has now been proposed to make the wearing of a helmet compulsory even for the pillion rider.
"Presently helmet is mandatory only for the rider. But in an accident, even the pillion rider is as vulnerable as the rider, to the head injuries. Keeping this in mind, a decision has been taken in this regard," he said. Final decision after BBMP election: But according to sources, even though the proposal has been placed before the state government, an official notification in this regard may be issued only after the BBMP election.
"The city has the highest number of two-wheelers and the majority of them are against such a move. Fearing a backlash in the election, the state government is expected to take a decision in this regard only after the election.” he explained. State-wide implementation: The decision of mandatory helmet for pillion riders will be implemented simultaneously across the state. "Presently helmet has been compulsory in all the major cities and towns. In the same lines, this decision will also be implemented," he added.
Reaction: Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, transport commissioner Mr. Ramegowda confirmed that a proposal has been sent to the state government. "We have forwarded the proposal as per the Supreme Court judgment. The government has to take a final decision in this regard," he said.
