Kolkata Traffic Police have intensified their efforts to improve safety for two-wheeler riders, particularly children, by introducing fines for parents whose children or themselves repeatedly ride without helmets. This move follows counselling sessions aimed at educating the public on safe riding practices. However, the penalties will not be applied indiscriminately, and both guidance and fines will be determined based on the severity of each situation.
As part of their ongoing safety campaign, the police have started installing more CCTV cameras around schools under the Nirbhaya project, which will capture footage of violators. A senior officer mentioned that they plan to involve students and school staff as monitors to help identify helmet rule offenders. “The excuse that helmets for children are unavailable is no longer valid,” the officer emphasized.
The police have also clarified the specifications for helmets: they must be ISI-certified, weighing between 700g and 1.2kg. Additionally, officers are holding sessions at schools to raise traffic awareness and are seeking input from students, parents, and teachers on ways to improve road safety.
The implementation of technology, including over 650 cameras to track violations, has helped reduce human intervention and make monitoring more efficient. The increase in fines has also acted as a deterrent, with more people adhering to helmet laws. Despite these efforts, challenges remain, particularly in slum areas where adherence to helmet rules is lower.
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