Pune : Helmet compulsory for all bike-riding traffic police personnel 

Starting on Thursday, wearing a helmet while riding a two-wheeler will be mandatory for all Pune police traffic personnel.

On Wednesday, the Pune Police’s Deputy Commissioner of Traffic issued an order in this regard. Out of the 950 employees in the traffic police branch, most of them commute on two-wheelers.

According to the DCP, helmet use is required by law for people who ride two wheels. However, it was noted that a large number of police officers were riding without helmets. Thus, they have begun enforcing the helmet rule among the constables, officers, and employees.

In accordance with the Central Motor Vehicle Act, the police will apprehend any helmet-free traffic personnel operating two-wheelers and fine them Rs 500 apiece. According to the traffic police, 514 motorcycle riders lost their lives in crashes between 2019 and 2022 in Pune City, accounting for 57% of all road crash fatalities during that time.

According to a traffic activist, the rule book already contains the provision. Why weren’t the traffic police officers following it, he wonders.

According to a senior police officer, the action will inspire other officers to take similar actions. If this is successful, other police officers will also be required to wear helmets.