
Amaravati: The High Court has taken a strong stance on road safety, particularly concerning the alarming number of fatalities due to motorcyclists not wearing helmets. In response, the state government has been ordered to enforce mandatory helmet use strictly, adhering to the provisions of the Motor Vehicle Act.
During a session on Wednesday, a bench comprising Chief Justice Justice Dheerajsingh Thakur and Justice N. Jayasuriya issued directives to ensure compliance. The court emphasized the necessity for vehicle inspection officers and traffic police to wear body cameras to ensure accountability and transparency. Violations of the helmet law are to be treated with utmost seriousness.
The court also instructed the AP Legal Services Authority to raise public awareness about the dangers of not wearing helmets. Furthermore, the government was advised to publish advertisements in leading regional and national newspapers to inform the public about the Motor Vehicle Act’s provisions.
Advocate Tandava Yogesh, who filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL), highlighted the dire situation by revealing that 3,042 individuals lost their lives due to not wearing helmets. The court acknowledged Yogesh’s efforts and expressed concern over the observed non-compliance, especially in Vijayawada.
The hearing has been adjourned for four weeks, during which the government must report on the enforcement measures taken.