Pune: Divisional Commissioner Dr. Chandrakant Pulkundwar has issued a mandate requiring all officers and employees working in government and semi-government offices, including municipal corporations, municipalities, councils, and colleges across Pune division, to wear helmets while riding two-wheelers.

The directive applies to both the rider and pillion rider as per the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Dr. Pulkundwar emphasized that the rule must be strictly followed by all concerned, with violators subject to disciplinary action.

The circular, issued by Dr. Pulkundwar, states that according to Section 129 of the Motor Vehicles Act, it is mandatory for all two-wheeler riders and their pillion riders to wear helmets.

This has been reiterated in past rulings by both the High Court and the Supreme Court. Dr. Pulkundwar reminded government employees that following the law is part of their duty.

According to the Maharashtra Civil Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1989, government officers and employees are prohibited from engaging in acts that contravene the law or established procedures.

As per Rule 3(1) and Sub-rule 18, they are expected to perform their duties in compliance with legal orders and maintain discipline. Any breach of these rules, such as not wearing a helmet, will result in disciplinary action, which will be recorded in the employee's service book.

The issue of road safety was recently discussed during a meeting chaired by Justice Abhay Sapre, head of the Supreme Court's Road Safety Committee.

The meeting focused on measures to reduce road accidents and fatalities in Pune city and district, particularly concerning two-wheeler riders.

Justice Sapre raised concerns about the rising number of fatalities in two-wheeler accidents and urged the administration to enforce helmet use and raise awareness about traffic safety rules.