Citing that 87% of deaths in road traffic accidents (RTA) involving two-wheelers is due to non-compliance in wearing helmets, Madurai city police commissioner J Loganathan has stressed the importance of wearing helmets.
He was speaking after inaugurating a new traffic signal and outpost at Iyer Bungalow junction on Monday.
“Our main aim is to prevent fatalities in road accidents. 87% of deaths in accidents involving two-wheelers is due to not wearing helmets, of which 70% are drivers and 30% are pillion riders. Wearing a helmet is important for pillion riders too,” said Loganathan.
He added that there are 31 junctions with automatic traffic signals in Madurai city and a study would be undertaken to check the timings given for the signals based on the volume of vehicles and make changes if needed.
The new automatic traffic signal, which is a first-of-its-kind in Madurai city will play light music with road safety awareness slogans in the background while road users wait at the junction. He also flagged off a two-wheeler road safety awareness rally in which around 100 students, youths, and public took part. Free helmets were also distributed to motorists who crossed the spot without wearing helmets. They were also explained about road safety and the importance of using helmets.
The CoP also assured that he would take steps to analyse and provide interventions or improvements where necessary at 145 traffic points in the city.
