Gujarat government makes helmets optional in city limits

In yet another relaxation in stringent provisions of the amended Motor Vehicles Act (MVA), the Gujarat government on Wednesday relaxed compulsory helmet rule in areas under municipal corporations and municipalities, but the headgear will remain mandatory for two-wheeler riders on highways and in rural areas.

The decision to make wearing of helmets voluntary for two-wheeler riders was taken by the state cabinet after the government received many representations against the compulsory headgear rule under the Act, which was amended by Parliament a few months ago.

The cabinet has decided to make rule of wearing a helmet voluntary in the limits of municipal corporations and municipalities of the state, transport minister R C Faldu told reporters in Gandhinagar after the cabinet meeting.

"The decision was taken after many deliberations as the government had received representations to relax the rule in city limits. However, wearing helmets will be compulsory on highways and ..