Daijiworld Media Network – Bantwal

Bantwal, Jan 25: In an innovative attempt to raise road safety awareness, the police near BC Road Circle stopped two-wheeler riders traveling without helmets and gifted them a helmet along with a rose. This unique initiative left the public curious, with many wondering if the police were now engaged in helmet sales.

The event was part of the Road Safety Month 2025 awareness campaign jointly conducted by the Bantwal Assistant Regional Transport Office (ARTO) and the Bantwal traffic police.

Near the BC Road Circle, officers were stationed in multiple teams to check documents and enforce safety norms. The sight of about 10-15 officers posted across various junctions initially led many to speculate about an anticipated VIP movement or an investigation into a high-profile case.

However, the activity was revealed to be an awareness campaign to promote adherence to traffic rules. The operation saw the participation of Bantwal ARTO Charan K, Bantwal town police inspector Anantapadmanabha, traffic police PSIs Sutesh K P and Sanjeev, traffic police officers, and motor vehicle inspector Pramod Bhat.

Riders without helmets were encouraged to purchase one rather than pay a fine. Two helmet counters had been set up in advance near BC Road Circle, where riders could procure ISI-marked helmets at a discounted price equivalent to the usual fine of Rs 500. Officials ensured the availability of helmets conforming to safety standards as part of the initiative.

“About 200 helmets were provided during the campaign to promote road safety awareness. Riders who already owned helmets but failed to use them were fined as usual. A total of around 60 violations were registered during the operation,” said PSI Sutesh K P.