Demand For Kids Helmet On The Rise In Bangalore: Here’s Why!

Published: Thursday, October 29, 2020, 11:52 [IST]

The city of Bangalore is witnessing a rising demand for kids' helmets recently. This demand comes because the city traffic police and other transport officials have started suspending the driving licence of helmetless riders for a period of three months. This includes pillions and children above the age of four.

According to TOI, transport officials have stated that it is mandatory for riders and pillions, including children (above four years of age) to wear helmets while riding their two-wheelers on the city streets.

Bangalore Faces Increasing Demand For Kids Helmet After New Driving Licence Suspension Rule Gets Implemented In City: Here Are The Details

Note: All images used are for representational purposes only.

Also, the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act of 2019 also states that riding a two-wheeler without a helmet will attract a fine of Rs 1000 and result in the suspension of the driver's licence for a period of three months. However, after a public outcry, the fine was reduced to Rs 500 while the suspension rule is being enforced in a more stringent manner.

With this, helmet stores in Bangalore's Lalbagh Road and JC Road are witnessing an uptick in sales. According to shop owners, while sales had been dull owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, customers are now coming back seeking small helmets for their kids, due to the enforcement.

Many activists have been complaining that parents do not bother purchasing helmets for their kids. However, children are the most vulnerable in case of accidents and are more susceptible to serious injuries.

Another reason for kids not wearing helmets is the lack of variety available. As per certain helmet store owners in Bangalore, there are only a few varieties available for kids, priced in the range of Rs 500 - Rs 1000. Most of these are not lightweight as well, making it uncomfortable for kids to wear it for long durations.

There are reports which suggest that as per the latest information released by the union ministry of road transport and highways, a total of 11,168 kids lost their lives in 2019 from road accidents; among them, 460 were from the state of Karnataka.

Thoughts On Bangalore Traffic Police Suspending Driver's Licence For Helmetless Riding

This is an excellent step forward to ensure two-wheeler riders wear helmets while travelling around the city. A helmet is an important protective gear, which needs to be worn by everyone riding two-wheelers, including children. It ensures their safety, protecting them from any serious injuries.