PMC Makes Helmets Mandatory for Employees Using Two-Wheelers
PMC Makes Helmets Mandatory for Employees Using Two-Wheelers
Strict enforcement to ensure safety and compliance with traffic rules.
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has made helmets mandatory for all employees and officers riding two-wheelers within the premises of its main building, regional offices and other facilities. As per the directive issued by Additional Commissioner Prithviraj B, entry and parking privileges will be denied to two-wheeler riders without helmets.
Safety Concerns Drive the Mandate
India has witnessed a significant rise in road accidents, with two-wheelers accounting for a large portion of these incidents. Fatalities are notably higher among riders not wearing helmets. The PMC’s decision aims to address this issue, as wearing helmets can prevent head injuries and save lives.
Pune, known for its large number of two-wheelers, has a low rate of helmet usage, despite the high frequency of accidents. Political parties and organizations have often opposed helmet mandates, resulting in limited enforcement through measures such as CCTV monitoring in the city.
The circular emphasizes that government employees must adhere to the helmet rule. Failure to comply will result in disciplinary action under the Maharashtra Civil Services Rules. Penalties include fines, which will be recorded in the service books of violators. Department heads and staff who fail to enforce or follow the order will also face action.
The circular states: “It is mandatory for government employees to wear helmets, and if they ignore it, disciplinary action will be taken against the concerned officers and employees under the Maharashtra Civil Services Rules. Fines will be levied and recorded in their service books.”
A similar order was issued months ago by the Divisional Commissioner, mandating helmet use for all government office employees in the region. The PMC has now implemented this rule for its workforce, aiming to promote road safety and adherence to traffic regulations.
This step underscores the urgency of ensuring helmet compliance in a city with a significant number of two-wheeler riders and frequent accidents, as the municipal body takes the lead in prioritizing safety over opposition.
