Sun Jan 12 11:04:29 UTC 2025: ## Puducherry Police Crack Down on Helmetless Riders, Reward Compliant Motorists
**Puducherry, January 12, 2025** – A renewed push to enforce the mandatory helmet law in Puducherry has resulted in a mixed bag of reactions on its first day of strict enforcement. Following several failed attempts and directives from a Supreme Court-appointed committee, the Puducherry government implemented a zero-tolerance policy on Sunday.
Police deployed special squads across the Union Territory, focusing on accident-prone areas, particularly highways connecting Puducherry to Cuddalore, Villupuram, Chennai, and Thirukkanoor. A significant police presence was also noted at major junctions.
While many two-wheeler riders complied with the law, police issued e-challans to those who did not, fining them ₹1,000. Vehicles of offenders also received stickers urging helmet use. Conversely, those wearing helmets were rewarded with flowers and gifts.
Senior Superintendent of Police (Traffic), Praveen Kumar Tripathi, reported a visible shift in rider behavior. He noted that over 32,000 e-challans were issued last year alone, adding that the enforcement would be intensified, with potential license suspensions for repeat offenders. The police also distributed 2,000 helmets to students and appealed for public and business donations of helmets for those in need.
Previous attempts to fully enforce the helmet rule faced resistance, but the Supreme Court’s intervention has spurred the current strict action. The police intend to maintain a strong presence at government offices, educational institutions, and businesses to ensure continued compliance.
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