No fuel without helmet in Sopore

Sopore, Dec 27: Authorities in Sopore town of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district on Wednesday directed petrol pumps not to provide fuel to motorists who do not wear helmets. The additional measure includes the mandatory installation of CCTV cameras at fueling stations to monitor compliance.
The decision was announced by Additional Deputy Commissioner S.A Raina during a meeting with Sopore Petrol Pump owners. He emphasized the importance of promoting helmet use among two-wheeler riders for enhanced road safety.
“All petrol pump owners are directed not to sell or refill fuel to any two-wheeler rider without a helmet,” the ADC Sopore said.
He stressed the installation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras equipped with digital video recorders (DVR) at fuel outlets within a week to ensure clear surveillance of fuel transactions.
In addition to the helmet mandate, the administration is taking steps to improve overall services at petrol pumps, he said.
Raina also announced plans to make air compressors operational within three days, enhancing the facilities available to motorists. He outlined specific hours for fueling services, saying that petrol pumps will remain open from 7 am to 10 pm to ensure night fueling for vehicles. During the remaining hours, fueling will be facilitated on call.
To improve the overall commuting experience, the ADC directed that all washrooms at fuel stations should be operational and accessible to commuters.
He said these measures are aimed at not only enhancing road safety but also creating a more efficient and customer-friendly environment at petrol pumps in Sopore.
The locals hailed the decision saying it signifies a proactive approach by the administration to address road safety concerns and encourage responsible behavior among motorcyclists in the area.
“It’s important for the government to ensure effective implementation, proper enforcement, and ongoing public awareness campaigns to maximize the impact of this decision,” said a senior citizen.
Such rule is a strategic move by the government to address concerns related to rash driving and enhancing road safety, an official said, adding that the decision aims to promote responsible riding habits and reduce the risks associated with riding motorcycles without helmets.