Gujarat: Helmet drive nets over 1.88 lakh traffic violators, including 5,123 govt employees
Gandhinagar, June 11
A month-long statewide helmet enforcement campaign conducted across Gujarat in May resulted in punitive action against more than 1.88 lakh motorists and the collection of fines amounting to Rs 5.21 crore, according to data released by the State Traffic Branch.
The special 'Helmet Drive', held from May 1 to May 31 under the instructions of Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, was launched with the stated aim of improving road safety, reducing fatalities in traffic accidents and encouraging greater compliance with traffic regulations.
One of the notable aspects of the campaign was the action taken against government personnel.
Traffic police were deployed at the entrances of government offices during the drive, leading to enforcement action against 5,123 government officers and employees found violating helmet rules.
Authorities collected fines totalling Rs 16.58 lakh from those officials and staff members. Director General of Police (DGP) G.S. Malik said the campaign was intended to promote road safety rather than generate revenue through penalties.
"Collecting fines is not the objective of Gujarat Police. Our aim is to ensure the safety of every citizen of Gujarat. Vehicle riders and pillion passengers should wear helmets, and motorists should wear seat belts, not because of fear of the police or to avoid fines, but for the happiness and well-being of their families," he said.
He said road safety was a shared responsibility and appealed to citizens across the state to follow traffic rules strictly and act as responsible road users.
Malik noted that investigations into numerous road accidents have shown that lives were saved because riders were wearing helmets at the time of impact.
He said there were also many instances in which families were left regretting the absence of basic safety precautions after fatal crashes.
"Road safety is not only the responsibility of the police but a collective responsibility of all of us. I appeal to all citizens of the state to strictly follow traffic rules and become responsible citizens," he added.
The police chief also highlighted awareness-based initiatives undertaken alongside enforcement measures.
In some campaigns, traffic police have opted to educate violators by presenting them with roses or helmets and explaining the importance of protective gear, rather than immediately imposing penalties.
Officials said the month-long drive reinforced the principle that traffic laws apply equally to all road users, including government employees and public officials.
The State Traffic Branch reported that the campaign covered motorists across Gujarat and combined enforcement with public awareness efforts aimed at increasing helmet use and improving overall road safety.
— IANS
Reader Comments
I appreciate the intent, but fining 5,123 government employees highlights a deeper issue: why are these people not following rules themselves? If sarkari staff can't wear helmets, what message does that send to the public? At least this drive is a start. Let's see if it continues beyond May.
This is a great move! In many countries, helmet laws are strictly enforced and it saves lives. The awareness campaigns with roses and helmets are a nice touch—education over punishment. India needs more of this. 🇮🇳
As a daily commuter in Ahmedabad, I've seen so many near-misses. Helmets are not a luxury—they're a necessity. But what about pillion riders? Many people wear a helmet themselves but force their wife or child to sit without one. The drive should cover that too. Ab police ko bhi pillion ka dhyan dena chahiye.
I support the drive, but I worry about the 'revenue generation' angle. ₹5.21 crore is a lot of money, and if the police see it as a cash cow, enforcement might become harassment, not safety. Let's hope DGP Malik's statement about 'not about fines' is genuine and they focus on education long-term. Data helps, but public trust is key.
Excellent initiative by Gujarat Police! As someone who lost a friend in a bike accident because he wasn't wearing a helmet, I can say this is life-saving. The fact that even government staff were fined shows no one is above the law. Harsh Sanghavi ji, keep it up. Road safety should be a priority everywhere in India. 🙏
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