Karnataka Transport Minister Byrathi Suresh said on Thursday that the state government is examining action against the use, sale and production of half helmets. The government has also proposed raising the fine for riding two-wheelers on footpaths from Rs 500 to Rs 5,000 for a first offence. The proposal is still under consideration.Key HighlightsKarnataka is examining a ban on half helmets.Action may be taken against manufacturers and sellers.Footpath riding fine may rise to Rs 5,000 for the first offence.A second footpath riding offence may attract Rs 10,000 under the proposal.Action Against Half HelmetsThe Karnataka half helmet ban proposal is linked to road safety. Byrathi Suresh said the government is checking the legal provisions needed to act against half helmets.The minister spoke to reporters at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru on Thursday.“We have decided to take action against the manufacturers and are examining the legal provisions.”The government is also looking at action against shops and warehouses that keep such helmets for sale.Half helmets cover only part of the head. They do not provide the same coverage as full helmets. The government says it wants riders to follow safety rules.Rs 5,000 Fine for Footpath RidingThe state is also considering a major increase in the footpath riding fine.At present, the fine is Rs 500. Under the proposed rule, the fine could become Rs 5,000 for the first offence and Rs 10,000 for a second offence. The proposal will need further legal review before it becomes a final rule.“Footpaths are meant for pedestrians, but two-wheelers and four-wheelers are being driven on them, endangering people's lives.”Suresh said stricter penalties are being considered to improve road safety.More Traffic Rules May ChangeThe government is also considering higher penalties for several other violations. These include wrong-side driving, illegal parking, signal violations and dangerous riding.A points-based system for driving licences was also discussed. Under the proposal, drivers could receive penalty points for traffic violations. A licence could face suspension after reaching a set limit.The Transport and Home departments are also discussing linking the Sarathi system with Bengaluru Traffic Police's e-Challan system. This could help officers check licence details and previous violations.The Karnataka traffic rules changes are still being examined. Further decisions will follow after the required legal process.
