Tripura’s government has launched a groundbreaking initiative to curb rising road accidents and promote helmet usage among two-wheeler riders. At the heart of this campaign is the strict ‘No Helmet, No Petrol’ policy, which bars fuel stations from dispensing petrol to riders without proper headgear.
This measure comes amid alarming statistics: over 400 fatalities on Tripura’s roads last year, with a significant portion involving two-wheeler users not wearing helmets. Chief Minister Manik Saha unveiled the policy during a high-profile event in Agartala, emphasizing that road safety is a collective responsibility.
Supporting the flagship rule are several complementary policies. These include mandatory helmet checks at all police checkpoints, awareness campaigns in schools and colleges, and subsidized helmet distribution for low-income families. Traffic police have been empowered with digital tools to enforce compliance seamlessly.
Local residents have mixed reactions. While safety advocates applaud the move, some riders complain about inconvenience, especially in rural areas where helmet availability is limited. The government promises to address these concerns by setting up helmet vending machines at petrol pumps and partnering with local manufacturers.
Experts predict a sharp decline in head injury cases within months. Similar policies in other states like Haryana and Karnataka have reduced two-wheeler deaths by up to 30%. Tripura aims to set a national benchmark, with plans to extend the campaign to include reflective jackets for night riders.
As implementation kicks off statewide, authorities are ramping up fines for violations—up to Rs 1,000 for first offenses and vehicle impoundment for repeat offenders. The message is clear: helmets save lives, and Tripura is enforcing it with unwavering resolve.