In order to crack down on helmet-less riders, the Bengaluru traffic police have started an initiative called 'No Helmet, No fuel.' The police will hold a meeting with various fuel stations, associations and companies in this regard. Since this campaign has already been implemented in various cities in the country, police will now look into the intricacies to make the campaign a success.
Additional Commissioner of Police, Traffic, P Harishekaran said, "We have taken this initiative to prevent accidents. Since fuel is an essential commodity, people will at least bring a helmet and wear it while refuelling."
Harishekaran was optimistic about the proposal and stated that it would be implemented by issuing executive orders. Till June this year, 16,98,563 cases have been booked against people (including pillion riders) for riding sans helmet.
While some fuel station operators were happy with this initiative, others raised questions. They questioned the safety of staffers at these stations if they deny fuel to bikers. "Around 60 per cent of commuters in Bengaluru use two-wheelers and most of them are not very polite. They hurl expletives when there is a delay. What will be their plight when they deny petrol to bikers?" said one petrol bunk owner.
Ravi Hamsa, from Bengaluru Petrol Bunks Association, said that before implementing any such thing, the police and state government should create awareness among people on the same. He said that the government should come out with proper rules. He said that fuel companies should install hoardings on the campaign in order to drive the point home.
"When an inspector and three constables stationed at various circles across the City are unable to control offenders, do they think they will be able to attain success at fuel stations?" asked Naveen K, a commuter.
