Two wheeler drivers in Kerala will have one more compelling reason why they should be wearing a helmet always - mandated by law but often observed in its breach.

From April 1, riders would get ISI-approved helmets free of cost at the time of delivery of the vehicles, according to a directive by Transport and Road Safety Commissioner Tomin J Thachankary.

FREE ACCESSORIES

Not just helmets, accessories including front and rear number plates, rear-view mirror, sari guard, crash guard, and handle grip for pillion riders would also come free from April 1.

A decision to this effect was taken at a meeting of motorcycle manufacturers convened by Thachankary here yesterday. They have been told not to charge two-wheeler owners for the accessories.

The manufacturers have been further told that they would forfeit their right to operate in the state if this is not complied with, an official spokesman said here.

MOUNTING FATALITIES

He quoted the Transport and Road Safety Commissioner as saying that the decision on free helmets is prompted by the mounting fatalities involving bike riders in the state.

A little more than 20,000 such accidents were reported during last year with the highest 3,762 being reported from the state capital alone, as per statistics from the State Crime Records Bureau.

The vehicle manufacturers have also been told that they cannot impose a choice on the customer for an insurance firm. The registered owners has the right to select the insurance provider.

Another directive requires them to find a way to deactivate Bluetooth connectivity on mobile phone when the subscriber mounted the vehicle and kicked it to a start.

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