Gujarat HC criticizes lack of helmet use among two-wheeler Riders
Last Updated on August 12, 2024 by NewsDesk SLC
Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal and Justice Pranav Trivedi raised the issue of traffic tickets (challans) as to why not a single person on a two-wheeler bothers to wear a helmet, expressing concern over the rise in road accidents in Ahmedabad.
Pointing out the discrepancy between the reported issuance of challans (traffic fines) and the fact that almost no one wears helmets, Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal of the Gujarat HC questioned the effectiveness of such enforcement measures, noting that the issuance of challans should not be left to discretion. individual police officers.
The bench continuously gave 15 days to the state to ensure strict enforcement of helmet laws. Justice Sunita Agarwal argued that using cameras to issue challans directly to vehicle owners would remove the discretion of police personnel, making the process more efficient and fair. They also directed the state to address the road safety issues caused by the absence of a service road near the Sarkhej-Gandhinagar Expressway.
A PIL was filed by a resident of Gujarat in the HC regarding the construction of a flyover and a change was also filed in this case regarding the Sarkhej-Gandhinagar Expressway.
The HC extended the scope of the PIL to address other traffic management issues in Ahmedabad, including the following:
1. Improving traffic management and filling vacancies in the traffic police.
2. Inspection of entrances and exits to state highways, especially the SG highway, and assessment of the feasibility of flyovers.
The submitter drew attention to the problems caused by insufficient regulation of traffic at several entrances and exits and requested a solution from the expert committee. They also urged the court to crack down on traffic offenses such as driving on the wrong side, reckless driving and not wearing helmets.
The court expressed the importance of constructing service roads along the SG Expressway, connecting Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar. Signboards can be installed to facilitate traffic in high traffic areas.
Chief Justice Sunita Aggarwal expressed the need to assess the impact of traffic diversions on road safety and suggested the state government to look into the issue.
Advocate Salil M Thakore appeared for the petitioners and Advocate General of State Kamal B Trivedi represented the State.
Case law: Dharini Shah & Ors. v. State of Gujarat & ors
Written By: Kirti Sharma
