Bikers worried their fancy helmets might become illegal
Biking is a passion and a way of life for many. However, this passion also demands that all safety measure be taken. One of the basics is to wear a reliable helmet. But now, many bikers and biking squads in the city are worried that from next month their high-end helmets migh be declared unfit and might even be banned.
A notification issued by t Ministry of Road Transport and Highways states that from October, helmet companies will not be able to manufacture, stock or sell two-wheeler helmets which do not conform to the standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). And, this includes helmets manufactured by not just the local companies but also foreign brands, which are usually imported by dealers in India and cost anywhere between ₹15,000 to a lakh.
The Delhi bikers are in a dilemma because “most international brands are brought in India by dealers”, says Ishan Pahwa, founder of biking group RED (Royal Enfield Delhi), adding, “These brands will not come here to apply for ISI.”
Pahwa, like most bikers, feels letting go of his trusted international brand for one that has just ISI might be akin to “compromising one’s safety”. “We have a lot of adventure rides, and it’s very common for bikers to skid on difficult terrains. What’s at stake is our life. We are ready to pay a ₹500 challan, if the need arises, but we won’t compromise our safety!”
The biker groups are even ready to contest in court if this becomes a rule. Dr Arun Thareja, founder, GODS. (Group Of Delhi Superbikers), says, “ISI is okay but there are far superior things in the market. Making ISI compulsory is not a great move. And if we are challaned while wearing a foreign brand, non-ISI helmet, then we will go to the court.” Till now, the dealers of foreign helmet brands confirm that just one, out of the 10-12 international brands of helmets usually preferred in India, has applied for an ISI accreditation. Dinesh Gupta, who owns high-end bike accessory stores in Delhi, says, “We have signed a petition sent it to the state transport minister to allow and ECE helmets.” Due to the possibility of plementing this rule, biker groups are avoiding planning rides er September. “We n’t want to be challaned in the middle our rides. This rule is trouble for us. We ’t know how much e it will take to get ISI k on international gets, or if it will ever ppen,” says Pahwa. When road drives were conducted to confiscate non-ISI helmets in other states — such as in Bengaluru earlier this year — those wearing foreign brand helmets were reportedly challaned like others wearing non-ISI helmets manufactured locally. However, an official from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, who doesn’t wish to be named, says, “Non-ISI helmets are banned since past 25 years. But, the [recent] quality control order is not for general citizens; it’s only for manufacturers. Basically, foreign helmets are heavier. Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) have approved 1200gm as the upper weight limit for ISI helmets. We have requested BIS to look into it; and if somebody wants to buy a heavier helmet, let them. Those who have or intend to continue to buy foreign helmets, their concern will be addressed.”