District Superintendent of Police Kushal Chowksey said that a survey conducted by the department revealed that half of all fatal bike accidents in the district involved riders who were not wearing helmets.
| Photo Credit: photo for representational purpose
Nearly nine years after the helmet rule was relaxed in parts of Chickballapur district, the police have now decided to strictly enforce them again in a bid to curb rising road fatalities.
District Superintendent of Police Kushal Chowksey said that a survey conducted by the department revealed that half of all fatal bike accidents in the district involved riders who were not wearing helmets. “Many of these deaths could have been prevented if the victims had worn helmets,” he said.
The police also flagged another dangerous trend — drivers using mobile phones while driving, often leading to both fatal and non-fatal crashes. Making helmets compulsory, officials believe, will also help reduce phone usage on the move.
“People spend money on screen guards for their mobile phones, but ignore helmets that actually protect their head and life,” Mr. Chowksey remarked.
At a recent review meeting, it was decided to reimpose the helmet rule across the district. Awareness campaigns have already begun, and drivers have been given time until December 12 to purchase helmets. From that date, the police have been instructed to enforce the rule strictly and initiate legal action against violators.
According to statistics, a total of 306 fatal cases were reported this year so far where 333 people were killed and 900 sustained injuries. Majority of the injured in the non-fatal cases had permanent physical disabilities which could have been avoided with helmets.
Many rural pockets of the district had not implemented the helmet rule earlier citing poor road conditions and local resistance.
Published – December 07, 2025 06:40 pm IST
