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New Traffic Rules From Today |
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Dimapur,April 19(MExN): Starting Tuesday, Dimapur Police will strictly enforce the notification issued last week making mandatory for two-wheel riders to wear helmets and to clamp down on unauthorized use of sirens, name-plates and flag posts on vehicles.
This may come as bad news to motorists, especially young ‘daredevil’ bikers and self-styled ‘VIPs’ using unauthorized name-plates on their vehicles, who have been accustomed to flouting traffic rules, unmindful of the danger posed to fellow motorists. However, for the public and majority of vehicle owners, the notification is a welcome step and many feel that the order will improve traffic regulation.
Superintendent of Police of Dimapur Liremo Lotha said the notification was issued in the interest of public safety taking into account that most deaths in vehicle-accidents involve head injuries of those riding two-wheelers. He said the mandatory use of helmets will reduce fatalities to a large extent.
On rampant and unauthorized use of sirens, red lights, nameplates and flag posts, Liremo said this practice was getting in the way of smooth regulation of traffic, as even the traffic personnel sometimes find it difficult to differentiate between the authorized and unauthorized users. When queried whether the use of helmets will be uniformly applied to all two-wheeler riders, the city police chief said exemption will be made to Sikhs wearing turbans.
On the common sight of women and school children clinging to a scooter or bike and whether they too should wear helmets, Liremo said, “Let us see as we will be starting the exercise tomorrow. We also have to take the ground reality and make concessions wherever needed. After all, our objective is for public safety and not to inconvenience the citizens.” Those violating the mandatory helmet directive will be issued challan and fined.
Police will also remove unauthorized sirens and name plates and the vehicles owners will be booked under ‘Motor Vehicles Act’. Asked whether mandatory use of seat belts by four-wheel drivers was also in the offing, the SP replied, “one thing at a time.”
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