Helmet rule violators face intensified action

Police patrol teams collect Rs0.5 million in fines in a single day

RAWALPINDI:

In a concerted effort to enforce the mandatory helmet rule for motorcyclists on important highways, the patrolling police in Rawalpindi collected fines exceeding Rs0.5 million in a single day.

This action was taken in accordance with the directives of the Inspector General of Police (IG) Punjab.

According to a spokesperson, the patrolling police launched a crackdown on motorcyclists without helmets across various highways to ensure compliance with the helmet rule. During the operation, a total of 144 e-challans were issued, resulting in a fine collection of Rs572,150. The collected fines have been deposited in the government treasury.

SP Muhammad bin Ashraf emphasised that the actions against underage riders without helmets will be continued. He urged citizens to strictly adhere to traffic rules while traveling on highways.

The patrolling police's vigilant efforts to promote road safety and enforce helmet usage reflect their commitment to safeguarding the well-being of the community, he added.

Previously, a spokesperson for CTP stated that the enforcement was being carried out in accordance with the law under the directives of City Traffic Officer (CTO) Rawalpindi. The CTP has also launched an awareness campaign to promote the use of safety helmets among motorcyclists.

The CTO emphasised that the CTP is conducting a special campaign to raise awareness about traffic rules, road safety, and the importance of wearing safety helmets.

In-charges of various circles have been instructed to take strict action against those found riding without helmets. The CTO highlighted that motorcyclists are more susceptible to head injuries in road accidents and emphasised the importance of wearing helmets.

The CTP's motto, 'Helmet NahiTo Safar Nahi' (No Helmet, No Travel), reflects their commitment to ensuring the safety of road users, he added.

Since the implementation of a ban on riding motorcycles without helmets, the demand for new helmets has significantly increased in the garrison city.

This surge in demand has led to some traders taking advantage of the situation by raising the prices of helmets.

Motorcyclists in Rawalpindi have faced action from city traffic police officials for riding without helmets.

Helmet shops on Murree Road are witnessing large crowds, and traders are profiting unlawfully from citizens.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, July 9^th, 2023.