Wearing of helmets made compulsory in Manipur

IMPHAL, April 30 – A new rule, which comes into immediate effect, has made it necessary for all two-wheeler and pillion riders in the State to wear helmets. Expressing concern over the fatal accidents due to riding without helmets on the busy Imphal road, the Senior Superintendent of Police of Imphal West district, L Kailun, in a press communique here, said the Imphal West district police would conduct a special drive to enforce the wearing of helmets from May 3.

All two-wheeler and pillion riders have been asked to wear helmets and other protective headgear and anyone found wanting on this count will be fined as per the existing norms, the police release stated. The release stressed that wearing of helmets and headgear by two-wheeler as well as pillion riders is compulsory under Section 129 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1958.

The roads in Manipur have become increasingly hazardous with frequent reports of mishaps from all parts of the State. The sudden rise in the numbers of new passenger vehicles, especially autorickshaws and mini vans (Tata Magic vehicles) has added to the traffic chaos in Imphal.

Manipur Transport Minister Langpoklakpam Jayentakumar had earlier informed the State Assembly that till the end of 2007, the number of light vehicles rose by 5,000 to 6,000 per year.

Source: http://www.assamtribune.com