Raipur : In a significant move to strengthen road safety, the Chhattisgarh Transport Department has announced strict enforcement of mandatory helmet use for both the rider and the pillion passenger on two-wheelers across the state.
According to directives issued by Additional Transport Commissioner D. Ravishankar, the rule applies to all individuals above four years of age traveling on motorcycles or scooters in public places. The order emphasizes that helmet compliance will no longer be limited to drivers alone, but will equally apply to passengers seated behind.
The directive is grounded in Section 129 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, which mandates the use of protective headgear conforming to prescribed standards. Officials clarified that this legal provision explicitly includes both riders and pillion passengers, countering the common misconception that only drivers are required to wear helmets.
“Helmets are essential to prevent severe head injuries in road accidents, but only when worn properly and securely fastened,” Ravishankar stated. He also noted that limited exemptions exist under the law, such as for Sikh individuals wearing turbans. For children under four years of age, additional safety provisions may be determined by competent authorities.
In addition to enforcement on roads, the department has extended accountability to vehicle dealers. Under Rule 138(4)(f) of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, it is now mandatory for manufacturers and dealers to provide Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)-certified helmets at the time of vehicle sale. Showroom operators will face legal action if they fail to comply with this requirement.
“No dealer can deliver a two-wheeler without supplying a standard helmet. Violations will attract penalties under the Motor Vehicles Act,” Ravishankar warned.
The initiative comes amid growing concerns over lax enforcement of helmet laws in the state. A recent memorandum submitted by local civic representatives had highlighted the issue and called for stricter action against non-compliance.
Transport officials stressed that enforcement alone is not sufficient. Authorities have been instructed to conduct extensive public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the risks of riding without helmets—particularly for pillion passengers, whose safety is often neglected.
Road safety data indicate that head injuries remain one of the leading causes of fatalities in two-wheeler accidents, with non-use of helmets being a major contributing factor. The department believes that this dual approach of strict enforcement and awareness will significantly reduce accident-related deaths and serious injuries.
Officials across districts have been directed to ensure coordinated implementation and regular monitoring of compliance. The state government expects that these measures will lead to a marked improvement in overall road safety standards in Chhattisgarh.
