By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 27: The Bosco Integrated Development Society (BIDS) joined hands with the Shillong Traffic Police and students from various colleges to organise an awareness programme on Thursday at Don Bosco Square, Laitumkhrah, highlighting the importance of schoolchildren wearing helmets while commuting on two-wheelers.
The initiative follows a recent traffic advisory issued by East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police (SP) Vivek Syiem, making it mandatory for children to wear helmets while riding as pillion passengers on two-wheelers.
During the campaign, BIDS members and students distributed pamphlets to parents dropping their children off at school, emphasising helmet safety. Some helmets were also provided to children found without one, while parents were encouraged to purchase helmets to ensure their children’s protection.
Speaking to reporters, Laitumkhrah Traffic Branch in-charge M. Myrboh urged parents to ensure their children wear helmets, stressing that life is precious, and safety should be a priority.
He expressed concern over the lack of parental responsibility regarding their children’s safety and warned that from Friday onwards, the traffic police would start penalising parents who fail to comply with the helmet advisory, as per the Motor Vehicles Act.
On the other hand, Deep Gurung, BIDS Project Coordinator, commended the East Khasi Hills SP for issuing the advisory and stressed the need for greater awareness among parents regarding helmet safety.
He urged the residents of Shillong to ensure their children wear helmets when riding two-wheelers.
Despite the advisory, BIDS Project Director pointed out that some parents still lack awareness about the importance of helmet use.
He urged the traffic police to strictly enforce the rule, noting that head injuries remain a leading cause of fatalities in road accidents.
Meanwhile, Charemiki Diengdoh, BIDS Civil Society Mobilising Officer (CSMO), acknowledged some positive changes in public behaviour, as more parents are now ensuring their children wear helmets.
She, however, questioned why many parents prioritise their own safety by wearing helmets but neglect their children’s protection.
Diengdoh then called on citizens to take their children’s safety seriously and adhere to the advisory.