On day 1, cops go easy on helmets

CHENNAI: Day one of the strict implementation of the State government helmet rule saw city traffic cops going easy on two-wheeler riders, educating erring individuals instead of fining them on Saturday. However, police sources have said implementation would be stricter from Monday.A week ago, Chennai traffic police announced that they would be implementing the rule making the wearing of helmets mandatory from May 28, warning that motorcyclists who did not wear helmets would be fined. Several deaths in road accidents could be prevented by wearing helmets, police said.The announcement led to a spurt in helmet sales in the city but on D-Day, traffic police stopped two-wheeler riders who weren’t wearing helmets and spoke to them about why it was necessary to wear one. Police sources revealed that they chose to create awareness instead of fining people after they were asked not to over the past week. Instead all traffic police personnel had been instructed to create awareness on the importance of wearing helmets. Pamphlets will also be distributed and cops would also speak about the issue over microphones on roads. Action would be be taken against policemen, who took advantage of two-wheeler riders in the name of awareness, sources said.Meanwhile, public have also been asked to display number plates that were in accordance with the rules under the Motor Vehicles act. Number plates should not feature pictures or other words on them. A team has been formed to catch those violating this rule.