The Hindu Business Line : AP Govt to go slow on helmet rule

AS the compulsory rule to wear helmets comes into force on Wednesday, the State Government has made it clear that two-wheeler riders will not be punished for violating the rule for at least two months.

The Government will take classes instead for the offenders to educate them on the need to wear helmets. "We have identified 17 places in the twin cities to counsel the offenders," said Mr S. Santosh Reddy, Minister for Transport. Women driving mopeds and pillion riders are exempted from the rule.

Addressing a press conference here on Tuesday, Mr Santosh Reddy said that he had directed the traffic police not to harass people. "There should not be a single complaint from the people alleging harassment on the helmet count," he said.

He also told police officials not to insist on any particular brand (of helmets). "Quality is important not the brand," he said. Stating that there is enough awareness on the issue, the Minister pointed out that at least 30 per cent of two-wheeler drivers use helmets at present. The Government wants to introduce the rule in phases in major cities and then in the rural areas.

Asked about the Two-Wheeler Riders Association campaign against the rule, the Minister said that it was unfortunate that the issue was still a contentious issue in the country. "It is very important to wear helmets. There should not be any second opinion," he said.

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