Helmets sell like hotcakes

As the deadline for enforcement of the compulsory helmet rule is just a week away, two-wheeler riders have started thronging bike accessories shops in the city to purchase the protective headgear. The new traffic rule has boosted the sale of helmets in otherwise slack season. ‘No stock’ boards were seen at some bike accessories shops which would normally offer a flat discount on the entire range of helmets.

P Varshika who came to buy a helmet at a bike accessories shop on Mahatma Gandhi Road said, “I never gave a serious thought to wearing a helmet though I have been riding a two-wheeler for the past six years. I do not want to take any risk henceforth as helmet ensures safety of the two-wheeler rider.”

Unlike the past, traffic police are determined to enforce the helmet rule strictly to promote road safety. Many youngsters, who used to roam freely in the city without wearing helmets earlier, are of the view that it is not easy to avoid traffic police this time with the increase in surveillance in the capital region. Several two-wheeler riders started bringing out their helmets purchased at the time of vehicle registration from cupboards to avoid unnecessary trouble.

The selection of a good helmet has become a bit difficult for some as they are in a dilemma whether to purchase a half helmet or a full one for better protection. “Full helmets are selling like hotcakes. We have placed orders for more full helmets to meet the demand.

Generally, the fashion conscious youngsters prefer full helmets even if they cost more. There is also a good demand for moto helmets designed for riders of sports bikes as their number is steadily increasing in the city,” said P Rajesh, owner of a bike accessories store.