The Two-Wheeler Helmet Manufacturers Association (THMA) has submitted a comprehensive set of recommendations to the Government of India aimed at curbing the spread of fake and substandard helmets. These measures emphasise the enforcement of stringent regulations, boosting public awareness, and fostering industry collaboration to enhance the safety of two-wheeler riders. This proposal comes amid rising concerns about road safety and the widespread availability of non-ISI certified helmets in the market.
Rajeev Kapur, President of the Two-Wheeler Helmet Manufacturers Association, welcomed the government's initiative to crack down on faulty helmets, stating, 'The safety of our riders is of utmost importance. The presence of fake and substandard helmets in the market not only undermines public safety but also erodes consumer confidence in quality products. We urge the government to adopt a comprehensive strategy that includes strict enforcement of existing regulations and robust public awareness campaigns.'
The association came up with the following recommendations:
Strict Enforcement Of Regulations: THMA advocates for the rigorous enforcement of 'The Helmet for Riders of 2Ws (Quality Control) Order, 2020,' mandating all helmets carry the BIS mark, with penalties for violations under Clauses 29 and 30 of the BIS Act, 2016.
Strengthen Enforcement Agencies: The government should empower and equip enforcement agencies, particularly the police, to identify and seize substandard helmets through regular and surprise inspections of retail outlets and manufacturing units.
Heavy Penalties: Implement heavy penalties for manufacturers, distributors, and retailers involved in the sale of non-compliant helmets, with stricter actions, including business closures, for repeat offenders.
Ban On Roadside Sales: The association recommends banning the roadside sale of helmets, which often include substandard, fake, or refurbished products sold without proper invoicing.
Regulatory Measures
The association stated that strengthening standards is crucial to ensuring all helmets sold in India comply with BIS certification through stringent testing and certification processes for manufacturers and importers. It is essential to require original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to have in-house testing laboratories to ensure the quality of helmets supplied to consumers. Additionally, THMA suggests that manufacturers maintain in-house injection moulding facilities with self-owned moulds and complete laboratory setups, similar to the standards followed for industrial helmets.
Public Awareness
Launch nationwide campaigns to educate the public on the importance of wearing BIS-certified helmets and the dangers of using substandard helmets through various media channels and public events. Additionally, reduce the GST on helmets from 18% to 5% or 12%, making quality helmets more affordable, and provide incentives or tax benefits for purchasing BIS-certified helmets.
Industry Collaboration
The association insisted to encourage large companies with extensive two-wheeler fleets, such as Amazon, Ola, Uber, Flipkart, Rapido, Swiggy, and Zomato, to ensure their drivers and riders use only BIS-certified helmets. Additionally, promote research and development in helmet technology to produce more effective and affordable safety gear, offering grants or incentives for innovations in helmet safety.
Monitoring & Evaluation
THMA reiterated the importance of conducting regular surveys and studies to monitor helmet compliance and assess the impact of implemented measures on road safety. It also suggested to establish feedback channels for stakeholders, including consumers and enforcement agencies, to continuously improve policies and strategies.
By implementing these recommendations, the country can significantly enhance road safety and protect the lives of millions of riders across India, Kapur added.
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