Helmets have been made mandatory for pillion riders too in the steel city.

The district transport department, which has issued a circular in this regard, asked traffic police to initiate a checking drive of two-wheelers on the road. Police have been asked to also ensure that the visor of the head gear is clean and is in good condition. A fine of Rs 500 will be imposed on those found violating the orders.

District transport officer Dinesh Ranjan said, "The traffic wing of district police have been asked to ensure that pillion riders too wear helmets. An awareness drive was held on Tuesday. Pamphlets highlighting road safety and how helmets can also protect the life of a pillion rider during road mishaps were distributed at Sakchi and other places."

A traffic department official said the decision was taken after considering the rising number of cases of road mishaps in the district. "Helmet is mandatory for both men and women pillion riders," the official clarified.

The traffic wing of district police will start a random helmet checking drive from Wednesday and if any pillion-rider is found without a helmet, he or she will have to shell out a penalty of Rs 500 as per the provisions of Motor Vehicles Act.

On Tuesday, a couple of local NGOs took part in the awareness drive at Sakchi.

During the drive, they highlighted the importance of helmets for pillion riders as well.

Social activist Anand Kumar, who also works on road safety issues, said making helmets mandatory for pillion riders is a welcome move.

"Though this provision is there in the Motor Vehicle Act, it was not implemented strictly. Pillion riders are also at risk if they are without helmets. As per the Act it is also mandatory to wear safety helmets meeting ISI specification for both the driver and pillion rider, " he explained.