These are often falsely presented as ISI-certified, posing a danger to riders.The Helmet Association praised the Pune Regional Transport Office's (RTO) mandate requiring two helmets with every two-wheeler sale. This initiative, announced January 7, 2025, aims to improve road safety and reduce fatalities by enforcing Rule 138 of the Motor Vehicles Act, making helmet use mandatory for both riders and pillion passengers.
The Pune RTO's new rule requires dealers to provide two helmets with each two-wheeler purchase, one for the rider and one for the pillion rider. This reinforces the importance of helmet use and addresses a gap in current road safety practices. The Helmet Association fully supports this mandate and is committed to promoting awareness of helmet benefits.
Rajeev Kapur, President of the Helmet Association & MD Steelbird Helmet, said, “The RTO’s directive to ensure that every two-wheeler buyer receives two helmets—one for the rider and one for the pillion rider—is a much-needed initiative. This step not only reinforces the importance of wearing helmets but also addresses a critical gap in road safety practices. We wholeheartedly support this mandate and are committed to raising awareness about the life-saving benefits of helmets.”
Kapur stressed the importance of genuine ISI-certified helmets. He pointed out a common practice where dealers provide substandard helmets costing less than INR 130 but marked with an INR 1,000 MRP. These are often falsely presented as ISI-certified, posing a danger to riders.
“Customers are misled into believing these are genuine ISI-certified helmets, which, instead of saving lives, endanger them. With this rule, all helmets must be BIS-certified, and when supplied directly by OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers), they will be authentic and ensure the safety of riders,” he added.
The alarming statistics of road accidents underscore the urgency of such measures. In 2021, there were 52,416 two-wheeler accidents, resulting in 22,786 deaths. This number rose significantly in 2022, with 63,115 accidents and 25,228 fatalities. These figures highlight the critical need for strict compliance with helmet regulations to prevent such tragedies.
Kapur added, “We believe this move will foster a culture of safety among two-wheeler riders. Helmets are not mere accessories; they are life-saving devices that can protect individuals during accidents. We urge all stakeholders, including two-wheeler dealers and buyers, to wholeheartedly embrace this initiative. Together, we can make our roads safer for everyone.”
The Association is ready to collaborate with the RTO, traffic police, and other stakeholders to launch awareness campaigns and ensure the successful implementation of this rule. Through collective efforts, we can significantly reduce road accidents and create a safer commuting environment for all.
