New Delhi: To make helmets mandatory for women pillion riders on two wheelers, Delhi`s transport department has sought permission from Delhi`s Chief Electoral Office for issuing a gazette notification for the same.
According to the Delhi`s transport department, a total 576 two wheeler riders lost their lives in 2012.
"This means two persons who die every day in road accidents are two wheeler riders. In India, during the year 2012, a total number of 35,767 two wheeler riders, many of them women, were killed in road accidents," the transport department said in its letter to the Election Commission.
"The main risk factor for motorized two wheeler users is non-use of helmets and head injuries are the major cause of death, injury and disability among them. In the above circumstances and considering the views of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Delhi Traffic police and Delhi Commission for Women, for making mandatory wearing of helmet by women while driving or riding on the two wheelers, the concerned rule is being considered for amendment by Delhi government," it said.
The transport department in its letter has sought the EC`s permission for notification for publishing draft amendment in the Delhi Motor Vehicles Rules which make it optional for women to wear helmets/protective headgear.
