Bhatkal police present roses to bikers sporting helmets

January 21, 2016 | Correspondent | Bhatkallys News Bhatkal: Since the Karnataka Government made helmet wearing mandatory for both riders and pillion riders, bikers in Bhatkal were increasingly seen sporting helmets while riding. In a bid to appreciate the bikers who have started implementing the rule, Bhatkal Circle Inspector presented them with roses today but at the same time imposed fines on those violating the rule. It may be noted that there are nearly 25,000 bikers in the town because of which more accidents are reported here as compared to other places in the district and in many accidents bikers sustain head injuries. Meanwhile, there is a widespread protest across North Karnataka, where day temperatures are high. Two-wheeler riders, who wear helmets in this part of the state, complain of suffocation. However, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah refused to grant any kind of relaxation to the two-wheeler riders in North Karnataka. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also justified the compulsory helmet rule for two-wheeler pillion riders across the state, saying it was being implemented in accordance with Supreme Court verdict. "We did not bring the helmet rule, we just carried out the direction of the Supreme Court," he said, as the police began to strictly implement the rule. It may be noted that the rule was effective from January 12 but the police went slow, giving time for buying helmets. Wearing helmet is now compulsory not only for the rider but also pillion riders.   With inputs from PTI - ARF