Punjab Higher Education Institutes Enforce Mandatory Helmet Use for Students and Faculty Riding Motorbikes-Notification

No.PA/AS/MISC-2024
GOVERNMENT OF THE PUNJAB
HIGHER EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
Dated Lahore, the 29^th September, 2024

Subject:            MANDATORY HELMET WEARING FOR STUDENTS AND FACULTY WHILE RIDING MOTORBIKES.

Please reference to the subject matter.

The increasing numbers of road accidents involving motorbikes have raised significant concerns, particularly head injuries and fatalities that could have been avoided through the use of appropriate protective gear. Therefore, it is imperative that the use of helmets be made mandatory for all students and faculty members who commute to the university on motorbikes.

2.                     Motorbike accidents pose a serious risk to the lives of riders, and head injuries remain a major cause of disability and death in such incidents. Helmets have been proven to significantly reduce the severity of injuries and improve the chances of survival In the event of an accident. The use of helmets can decrease the risk of fatal injury and even death to significant level. Despite the obvious benefits, many motorbike riders still choose to ride without wearing helmets, putting their lives at considerable risk.

3.                     In view of the alarming number of avoidable injuries on the roads, I have been directed to request you to implement a strict policy requiring all individuals commuting to their respective educational institutions via motorbikes to wear helmets. This measure will not only ensure compliance with road safety regulations but will also help create a culture of safety and responsibility among the students and faculty members.

4.                     To effectively implement this directive, it is requested that the following steps be taken:

1. Awareness Campaign: Issue a formal notification to all students and faculty members regarding the mandatory use of helmets. Initiate awareness campaigns highlighting Importance of helmet usage and the potential consequences of neglecting this crucial safety measure.

2.         Strict Surveillance at Entry & Exit Point: Maintain proper surveillance/ check point at entry gates to ensure that individuals commuting via motorbikes are wearing helmets. Entry to the campus should be restricted for those who fail to comply with this safety requirement.

3.         Collaboration with Local Authorities: Collaborate with local traffic author.es to ensure enforcement of this poll, beyond the campus as well, and invite experts to deliver sessions on road safety.

4.         Penalty for Non-Compliance: Introduce penalties for individuals who fail to wear helmets while commuting to the university. This could include suspension of parking privileges on campus as well as restrictions on entry to the campuses as well as attendance in the classes.

These instructions may be adhered to in letter & spirit and a compliance report may be shared with this Department at E-mail: mishedpunjab@gmail.com.

Additional Secretary (Adman &General)