Those applying for a two-wheeler licence must now sign an indemnity bond with the state traffic and transport department, saying they will wear helmets and not violate traffic norms.
Those applying for a two-wheeler licence must now sign an indemnity bond with the state traffic and transport department, saying they will wear helmets and not violate traffic norms.
Diwakar Raote, minister for transport, told dna that the state government has decided to implement the Bombay high court's order making helmets compulsory. "Now, people have to use helmets, otherwise action will be taken against them as per existing rules. We are doing this for the safety of the people, so they should abide by the law," Raote said.
He said that if the department fails to implement the court order, it will amount to contempt of court. "The court may suspend our state officials for not following its order. Earlier, it had suspended civic officials for not performing their duties. Now, the responsibility of following the traffic rules lies with the people. Therefore, as part of this exercise, we have decided to get two-wheeler owners to sign an indemnity bond while issuing them the license," Raote added.
Besides, the traffic and transport department has decided to conduct strict tests for driving license seekers. "People should be aware about the rules and regulations. Presently, anyone applies and gets the license by greasing the palms of officials and paying commission to agents. There are many people who have got licenses but they did not know how to drive a car or two-wheeler. They are not familiar with traffic rules. Unless and until, they crack the driving examinations, the license will not be issued. The casual approach to implement rules has caused road accidents and claimed lives of many innocent people. We want to change this scenario by changing the rules," said senior traffic officials requested anonymity.
Another traffic department official told dna that the state government is also contemplating increasing fines for violating traffic rules. "By increasing fine, our aim is not to increase revenue but discipline people," an official said.
Raote said that to make his department more efficient and effective, he has decided to fill the vacancies. "Shortage of staff is putting pressure over the existing staffers. Therefore, we have decided to fill them. Posting and promotions will also be done immediately," Raote added.
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