Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Jun 16: With the safety of children in mind, police have once again launched an awareness campaign on the rule mandating helmets for children above four years of age while travelling on two-wheelers.

With schools having reopened, a large number of parents are ferrying their children to school on two-wheelers. In view of this, police personnel are visiting schools early in the morning to create awareness among parents and remind them about the court directive regarding compulsory helmet use for children.

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While many parents wear helmets to ensure their own safety, instances of neglecting their children's safety continue to be reported. Traffic police have warned that whether a child is seated in front or behind on a two-wheeler, there is a high risk of head injury if the vehicle loses balance or meets with an accident. They have also cautioned that ignoring helmet use on the grounds that the school is nearby or the journey is short can be dangerous.

Police have stressed that wearing a helmet is not merely a measure to avoid penalties but a vital safety precaution that can save lives in the event of an accident. They have appealed to parents to instil traffic discipline and road safety habits in their children from a young age.

Police have also pointed out that safety measures are mandatory even when carrying children below four years of age on two-wheelers. In addition to helmets, the use of child safety belts by the rider or pillion rider to securely fasten the child to the parent’s body can significantly reduce the risk of the child falling. The court has also directed that these safety measures be followed, emphasizing that this is not merely a matter of legal compliance but an important step towards protecting children's lives.

Although police had conducted awareness drives near various schools in the city a few months ago and educated parents on the issue, it is still observed that nearly 80 percent of children, particularly primary school students, are being transported on two-wheelers without helmets. While parents in urban areas are at least seen wearing helmets themselves, many parents in rural areas continue to ride without helmets. Therefore, police have stressed the need to intensify awareness efforts in rural areas as well.

Police highlighted the key provisions of the helmet rule, stating that helmets are mandatory for children above four years of age, and that the helmet used must be appropriate to the child's size. Wearing a helmet provides protection against head injuries during accidents. Violations can attract fines ranging from Rs 500 to Rs 1,000, and authorities also have the power to suspend driving licences. Police further emphasized that even short trips to nearby schools are not exempt from safety regulations.