New Rule Mandates Two Helmets with Every Two-Wheeler Purchase in India
New Delhi, March 31: To improve road safety and reduce fatalities from two-wheeler accidents, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has introduced a new regulation requiring that every new two-wheeler sold in India comes with two ISI-certified helmets. This rule applies to all motorcycles and scooters to ensure that both riders and pillion passengers are adequately protected.
Key Highlights of the New Rule:
Under this new directive, all two-wheeler dealers in India must provide two helmets with every vehicle sold. These helmets must meet the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) safety requirements and carry the ISI certification, ensuring they adhere to strict criteria for impact resistance, strap durability, and visibility.
This regulation aligns with the updated BIS standards (IS 4151:2015), which focus on increased protection against head injuries in road accidents. By integrating helmets into the vehicle purchase process, the government aims to promote their consistent use and enhance overall road safety.
Impact on Buyers, Dealers, and Manufacturers:
– For Buyers: Customers will receive two certified helmets with their purchase, removing the excuse of not owning one. This initiative is expected to encourage safer riding habits from the outset. However, it may lead to a slight increase in vehicle costs, as dealers might include the expense of the helmets in their pricing.
– For Dealers: Dealers will need to maintain a stock of ISI-certified helmets to comply with the new regulation. Non-compliance could result in fines or the suspension of their sales licenses. Nevertheless, dealers can leverage this initiative to promote road safety awareness and enhance customer trust.
– For Manufacturers: Helmet manufacturers must ensure their products align with the latest BIS standards, which might require adjustments in design and production processes. This rule also presents an opportunity for helmet manufacturers to innovate and market high-quality safety gear to a growing customer base.
Enforcement and Compliance:
To guarantee strict adherence, the government has instituted penalties for dealers who fail to provide the required helmets or supply substandard ones. Regional transport authorities will conduct regular inspections to monitor compliance across dealerships.
This regulation also complements existing helmet laws, which require both riders and pillion passengers to wear helmets while riding. By making helmet provision an integral part of the vehicle purchase process, authorities aim to tackle non-compliance issues and make helmets more accessible.
A Step Towards Safer Roads:
India has one of the highest road accident fatality rates, with head injuries being a leading cause of death among two-wheeler riders. Despite helmet laws, enforcement is often weak, and many riders neglect to use helmets. By mandating that helmets be included with two-wheeler sales, the government is taking a significant step towards reducing casualties and fostering a culture of responsible riding.
While buyers may experience a modest increase in costs and dealers face logistical challenges, the long-term benefits of this regulation far exceed its drawbacks. As this rule goes into effect, it is expected to make Indian roads safer for millions of two-wheeler riders, ensuring that every journey begins with appropriate safety measures in place.
