Will Indore Enforce 'No Helmet, No Petrol' Rule Starting August 1?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Mandatory helmet use will be enforced in Indore.
- Bikers will be denied petrol without helmets.
- Police will enforce penalties for violations.
- Public awareness campaigns will be launched.
- Seat belts for car drivers are now mandatory.
Bhopal, July 30 (NationPress) Starting August 1, motorcyclists in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, will face a significant penalty if they are caught riding without helmets. Furthermore, they will be denied fuel at any petrol station in the city. This measure comes as part of a directive from the Indore district administration, which aligns with the Supreme Court's mandate aimed at enhancing public safety and reducing traffic violations.
Wearing helmets is crucial as it greatly minimizes the likelihood of severe injuries or fatalities during accidents. The initiative titled 'No Helmet No Petrol' was launched on Wednesday, with the enforcement set to begin on August 1. Indore district collector Ashish Singh emphasized that all petrol pump owners must adhere to this new regulation.
“The main threats to road safety include not wearing helmets, speeding, and driving under the influence. A helmet can significantly lower the chances of death in accidents. This regulation is essential for the safety of Indore's drivers,” Singh stated in a video message released on Wednesday.
He further indicated that wearing seat belts will also be obligatory for car operators. The administration plans to run awareness campaigns regarding helmet use throughout the city, aiming to lower road accident death rates.
The police will assist in enforcing this new rule and may impose fines on those who violate it. Citizens are urged to comply with traffic regulations at major crossroads in the area.
This directive followed a meeting led by Abhay Manohar Sapre, the Chairman of the Supreme Court's Road Safety Committee, who discussed with district officials how Indore could become a national benchmark for road safety, similar to its achievements in cleanliness.
During the District Road Safety Committee meeting, Justice Sapre urged officials to devise a time-sensitive plan and demonstrate measurable improvements within six months. He reviewed accident statistics from the past five years and underscored the importance of public awareness in reducing road mishaps. Justice Sapre noted that most road fatalities are linked to individuals not wearing helmets or seat belts, or those driving under the influence. He called for strong enforcement and community education to change these behaviors.
“Consistent penalties are essential for transforming public attitudes towards road safety,” he asserted, advocating for strict measures against drunk driving and habitual offenders. The requirement for helmet use and seat belt fastening must be enforced rigorously,” Sapre concluded.