Nearly 1.25 lakh prosecuted for traffic violations between Jan-June

New Delhi, July 20 (UNI) In its bid to desist two-wheeler riders from not wearing safety helmets, Delhi Traffic Police has launched a 'special drive' to prosecute those violating the Motor Vehicles Act.

For this, traffic superintendents would focus mainly on rural areas where 'helmet violations' are said to be most, according to the Traffic Police.

Police says under Section 129 of the Motor Vehicles Act (1988) every person driving or riding a motorcycle of any class or description shall, while in a public place, wear a protective headgear conforming to the specifications of the 'Bureau of Indian Standards'.

The exception, if any, was to a person who is a Sikh and wearing a turban.

During 2006 (upto June 17) 92,497 two-wheeler riders have been prosecuted for not wearing helmets while another 22,374 pillion riders prosecuted for the same offence.

The plan is to intensify action against both -- those not wearing helmets or wearing helmets not meeting the prescribed standards in coming days, said Jt Commissioner (Traffic) Qamar Ahmed.

Rueing people's negligence or ignorance in driving vehicles with black, dark or reflective windows and windscreens in violation of Rule 100 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (1989), which provides that windscreens shall have transparency of 70 per cent and side windows of 50 per cent, he said it was advisable that they are kept transparent.

In its intensified action against such errants, police have prosecuted 14,773 motorists so far this year.

UNI AN SK PM1627