Riders in Rudrapur wear helmets only near cameras: ANPR cameras recorded 88,819 no-helmet challans last financial year and 18,338 in September-October alone

Despite rising road accidents, two-wheeler riders are avoiding helmets. According to Amar Ujala, transport department figures show more than one lakh challans through ANPR (number-plate reading) cameras in the last financial year, of which 88,819 were for riding without a helmet. In September and October this year alone, 18,338 riders have been fined for riding without a helmet. To avoid challans, many riders put on a helmet only on reaching a place with cameras. ARTO (administration) Mohit Kothari said a helmet is worn for safety, not to avoid a challan, and the department is both spreading awareness and taking action.