It is a general observation that many laws, that coerce the populace into acting in accordance with them, are misguided in the guise of safety. Helmets are considered sacrosanct when spoken of in the context of driving two-wheelers. But the abhorrence shown for donning the headgear has been phenomenal in our country.
The helmet is more of an appendage, sported on the crook of the elbow, only to be worn at the sighting of a traffic-cop to avoid getting penalised for traffic infringement. The argument over the benefits of wearing a helmet while driving have failed to arrive at a conclusive agreement. More so when the advantages seem to pale in comparison the inconveniences experienced in using it to specifications.
According to many who have been religiously avoiding the use of helmets, the feeling that it protects from head injury is nothing compared to the discomfort, suffocation and heat one bears while wearing the gear.
The deluge of traffic police converging at a specific spot on the highway and flagging down and fining drivers for not wearing helmets cannot be the only aspect of safety awareness. It is a sad commentary on the state of affairs in our country that in spite of every individual being aware of what is expected of him/her traversing on public roads, the authorities need to appear firm in implementing rules to bring about an orderly conduct on our thorough fares.