Unique helmet safety drive in Faridabad

In a novel safety drive, the Faridabad traffic police on Thursday motivated two-wheeler drivers to buy helmets on the spot without slapping challans for violating traffic rules.

In a novel safety drive, the Faridabad traffic police on Thursday motivated two-wheeler drivers to buy helmets on the spot without slapping challans for violating traffic rules.

The traffic police, instead of penalising, motivated the two-wheeler drivers to purchase helmets from the special shops, set up at specific points.

“Paying a fine of Rs 100 is no big deal...the reason we introduced this novel concept is to help save their lives,” said Satvir Singh, the newly-appointed station house officer, traffic, Faridabad.

The drive began on National Highway No. 2( Mathura Road) close to Mujesar Mor in district Faridabad.

“We have succeeded in motivating over 50 offenders on the first day of this drive. Even pillion riders were not spared. They too were motivated to purchase helmets,” said Singh.

In 2012, out of 234 accidental deaths on Faridabad roads, 72 were two-wheeler drivers or pillion riders. In the last few months, about 25,000 people were challaned for not wearing helmets in Faridabad.