43 helmetless women died in city since 2013

Amit Sharma

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, July 15

The decision to make helmet compulsory for women two-wheeler riders may bring down the death rate in road accidents as 43 women have lost their lives since 2013 in the city, just because they did not wear helmet while driving.

As per the traffic police, since January 1, 2013, 43 women died as they did not wear helmet. In addition to that, 191 women two-wheeler riders were injured during the same period.

SSP (Traffic) Shashank Anand said deaths on road were preventable. “We cannot lose women in road accidents like this. Deaths can be prevented by wearing helmet,” the SSP added.

Police officials said to ensure complete safety, one should always use the right helmet, which ensures complete safety. “An ISI-marked helmet is tested for corrosion, strength, impact absorption and various other parameters,” said a police official.

The UT Administration had earlier this month notified that it will be mandatory for women two-wheeler riders to wear helmet, exempting only Sikhs with a turban.

Before initiating the challaning drive, the traffic police are holding a awareness campaign to sensitise women about the new law.