THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Compared to Ernakulam, helmet-less travel is rampant among two-wheeler riders in Thiruvananthapuram, especially in the rural limits, according to the Police Department. Of the 346 motor accident deaths in the rural limits in 2011, 243 were two-wheeler riders, show statistics released by the Department.
This is the policespeak on the issue: ‘’There are more two-wheelers in Ernakulam City than in Thiruvananthapuram Rural. But due to the police vigil and cooperation from the people, over 90 per cent of the two-wheeler riders in Ernakulam City wear helmets. Of the 182 people who died in traffic accidents, only 58 were two-wheeler riders.That is, just 30 per cent. At the same time, 243 of the 346 people who died in accidents in Thiruvananthapuram Rural were two-wheeler riders; 70 per cent of the death toll. Inspections have shown that the number of riders who wear helmets is rather low in Thiruvananthapuram Rural.’’
If you think it far-fetched comparing Thiruvananthapuram Rural, which is much larger in area to Ernakulam City, a comparison with Ernakulam Rural shows that of the 355 people who died in motor accidents, only 152 were two-wheeler riders - less than half.
The Police Department on Thursday had announced that it would be stepping up vigil against helmet-less riders.
‘’We are slapping fines on helmet-less riders caught on camera. But, I should say that helmet-less riding has reduced slightly,’’
Assistant Commissioner (Traffic) Rajmohan said.