Starting January 26, two-wheeler riders without helmets will no longer be able to refuel at petrol stations in Lucknow. In line with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's instructions, this initiative by the Transport Department aims to curb road fatalities caused by accidents involving two-wheelers. Lucknow District Magistrate Surya Pal Gangwar has directed strict enforcement of the "No Helmet, No Fuel" policy across the city.

Mandatory compliance for petrol pumps

Petrol pump operators in Lucknow have been instructed to deny fuel to riders and pillion passengers who fail to wear protective headgear. This directive, issued by the District Magistrate, aligns with the Uttar Pradesh Transport Commissioner’s January 8 order to raise awareness about road safety and reduce fatalities caused by the non-use of helmets.
Operators are required to install large signboards at their premises within seven days, clearly highlighting the new policy. Additionally, petrol stations must ensure functional CCTV cameras are in place to monitor compliance and prevent disputes effectively.

Penalties

The policy is backed by Section 129 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and Rule 201 of the Uttar Pradesh Motor Vehicles Rules, 1998. These regulations mandate the use of protective headgear conforming to BIS standards for all two-wheeler riders and passengers. Violators will face penalties under Section 177 of the Motor Vehicles Act.

A step toward safer roads 

This initiative is part of Uttar Pradesh's broader efforts to reduce road accidents. According to Transport Commissioner, Uttar Pradesh, Brajesh Narain Singh, a significant number of fatalities in two-wheeler accidents involve riders without helmets. In 2022 alone, Uttar Pradesh recorded 36,875 road accidents, resulting in 24,109 deaths and 21,696 injuries. Lucknow contributed to these alarming figures with 1,408 accidents, 643 deaths, and 994 injuries. The "No Helmet, No Fuel" campaign aims to instil a culture of responsible road behaviour and encourage the use of helmets as life-saving devices. By emphasising road safety and strict enforcement, Lucknow’s administration hopes to significantly reduce fatalities and create safer roads for its citizens.