2-wheeler riders pledge to wear helmets

NAGPUR: The city two wheeler drivers have never taken wearing of helmets seriously. So on Dhanteras, when the ILI Youth Brigade decided to park themselves at A K Gandhi TVS, a 2 wheeler dealership at Yeshwant Stadium to push in the point, the response overwhelmed them. "There are many first time drivers of two wheelers and they took our advice seriously," said Abhirup Lahiri, a YB member.
Making every proud owner of a brand new vehicle sign a pledge that said that the driver would always wear a helmet while using the vehicle, the young members of the brigade explained to them how wearing a helmet could prevent serious injuries. "This is a happy occasion for them so we did not wish to sound too alarmist," said Pooja Mohta, another YB member. "But what came as a surprise was that many were not even aware that wearing a helmet was compulsory under the law," she said.
Appreciating the initiative, Rajesh Moharil, who took delivery of a two wheeler for his daughter, said, "This is a very important issue and now that these young persons are taking it up in such right earnest it has chance of being effective and successful."
Stressing upon the need to make wearing helmet a habit, Nitish Chandra of YB said, "In their excitement of possessing a new vehicle, they agree to wearing a helmet. But what they have to learn is that it should be done as a habit and routine."
Feeling good about being part of the campaign, Yash Gandhi, owner of the showroom said, "I am proud to be associated with this campaign as it is about the safety of our customers. Surprisingly safety is not a priority on our roads. We do sell helmets in our showroom but can't force people to buy it. This campaign will help us spread that awareness."
Laxmi Menon, who also bought her first two wheeler on Friday, happily signed the pledge after giving a patient listening to YB members. "This being my first vehicle, I am going to be a cautious driver. Wearing a helmet will make me feel safe and secure."