New Delhi: As the Center has ordered district collectors to crack down on manufacturers and sellers of non-ISI certified helmets in the wake of rising casualties in accidents, curb the sale and use of these helmets in Delhi seems to be a challenge.
TOI conducted a reality check on the sale of helmets and found several streets flooded with such helmets being sold on the roadside. These road helmets cost between Rs 200 and Rs 2,000. Many of these helmets had “ISI” stickers pasted on them, giving an illusion of safety.
On Sunday, people were seen buying helmets from these roadside sellers in Delhi. The sellers claimed to be unaware of the government’s recent directive regarding substandard headsets. When asked, these suppliers claimed that their products met all essential safety standards mandated by the government. However, a closer look at the market revealed a complex situation, in which affordability often trumps safety.
Sagar, a 33-year-old vendor on Panchkuian Road, said many customers mainly bought helmets to avoid traffic fines. While some prioritized safety and opted for more expensive helmets, others were attracted to cheaper options. “Many often prioritize affordability over quality, which makes the market flourish,” said the owner of a shop selling branded helmets in Jhandewalan.
Other marketers pointed out that the need for a “spare helmet” for the passenger also generated many sales. “Many people buy a genuine helmet for themselves but keep a cheap one for the passenger to avoid traffic jams,” said another shop owner. Apart from the low cost factor, these merchants also offer helmet repair services. Rajnish, a resident of Bharat Nagar, bought two helmets priced at Rs 500 each. He highlighted their affordability and perceived safety compared to branded options. Krishan Kumar, another customer, echoed this sentiment. “There is a substantial price difference of at least Rs 700-1,000 between these road helmets and the branded ones,” Kumar said. He further noted that sellers often offer two types of headsets: cheaper, lower-quality options and more expensive, higher-quality options.
Prabhu Dayal, a veteran salesman, said most customers preferred headsets priced between Rs 250 and Rs 600, with some opting for options up to Rs 1,000. He said the sale of headsets was his only means of subsistence. Jai Prakash, another seller, said he exclusively sold helmets priced between Rs 500 and Rs 2,500. He said he was committed to providing safe helmets and avoiding low-quality products.
As many as 2,288 road accidents involving two-wheelers in Delhi, including 539 fatalities, took place in 2022. The number of deaths decreased marginally to 538 in 2023. A traffic police officer said they found that in most cases of road accidents involving two-wheelers, two-wheelers, deaths are due to head injuries. “People also use substandard helmets to avoid fines rather than to protect themselves from accidents. Sometimes they wear helmets and only put them on when they see police officers,” the officer said. It is crucial that consumers prioritize safety over cost. Investing in a certified helmet could significantly reduce the risk of head injuries in the event of an accident, the officer added. Traffic police said they regularly make trips to check whether people are wearing helmets. They also raise awareness of the importance of helmets.
As Delhi records alarming number of fatal two-wheeler accidents, experts highlight need for stricter enforcement of helmet regulations, public awareness and use of certified helmets to reduce head injuries. Rohit Baluja, president of the Institute of Road Traffic Education, highlighted the urgent need for stricter enforcement of helmet regulations, which he said are currently inadequate.
He stressed that public awareness of helmet safety was essential: “Our system only focuses on whether people wear a helmet or not, neglecting the crucial aspect of quality.” Baluja proposed a three-pronged approach: ensuring all riders wear helmets, verifying that helmets meet prescribed safety standards, and confirming that they are securely fastened. Additionally, he advocated an integrated sticker system, such as quick tags on helmets, to indicate their protective capabilities in the event of an accident, emphasizing the importance of both compliance and safety.
Dr Biplab Das, Director and Senior Consultant Neurology at Narayana Hospital, said: “Poor quality of helmet or not wearing one at all significantly increases the risk of head injuries including concussions, skull fractures and brain hemorrhages, which can have lasting neurological consequences. “Lack of adequate head protection puts a person at high risk of neck and spinal injuries, which can lead to partial or complete paralysis in severe cases,” Dr Das said. Without the support and impact dispersion that a certified helmet provides, the head, face and neck remain vulnerable to serious injuries, including deep lacerations, facial fractures and potentially fatal consequences.