Helmet enforcement drive in 5 major cities of MP:100 traffic personnel deployed at 20 intersections in Bhopal; fine receipts issued via POS machines

Starting today, pillion riders on two-wheelers must wear helmets in five major districts of Madhya Pradesh – Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, Gwalior, and Ujjain. While this rule already exists under the Motor Vehicle Act, it will now be strictly enforced. Rs 300 fine for violators A fine of Rs 300 will be imposed on any pillion rider above four years of age who is not wearing a helmet. DIG TK Vidyarthi said the rule has been implemented in these five cities for now. In the next phase, it will be rolled out across the state. First day of enforcement On Thursday, traffic police in Bhopal set up 20 checkpoints to enforce the rule. Scenes from the campaign included pillion riders questioning why they were not fined earlier and excuses such as “I forgot my helmet in a hurry; my child is admitted.” Tensions on the road At Lalghati intersection, there was a heated argument between riders and policemen over the helmet rule, highlighting the challenges of strict enforcement on the first day. See, pictures –