Rising traffic violations worry authorities as helmetless riding cases surge threefold in Kolkata

The number of motorcycle riders violating helmet rules in Kolkata has increased sharply over the past two years, raising serious concerns within the state administration. According to statistics from the Transport Department, more than five lakh cases of helmet-related traffic violations were recorded in 2025 alone, reflecting a dramatic rise in rule-breaking on city roads.

Official data indicates that around 1.7 lakh cases of riding without helmets were registered in 2023. The number rose to over three lakh in 2024 and crossed the five lakh mark in 2025, showing a threefold increase within a short span. Authorities say the problem is not limited to Kolkata but is also spreading across suburban areas and neighbouring districts. The violations include both riders driving motorcycles without helmets and pillion riders travelling without protective headgear. Officials believe the trend is particularly common among younger riders. Despite frequent police drives, increased surveillance at major intersections and the issuance of e-challans, the violations continue to rise, with many offenders repeatedly breaking the rules even after paying fines.

Experts believe that lack of awareness remains one of the primary reasons behind the growing problem. They stress that strict enforcement alone may not be enough and that road safety awareness must be promoted widely, especially among students. Authorities believe that stronger public campaigns, regular awareness drives and greater use of technology-based monitoring could help curb the rising trend in the coming years.