Mumbai: 15 days not enough to install seat belts, say vehicle users

The new seat belt for all rule has received criticism from stakeholders such as taxi, bus and truck drivers among others. While many have sought more time to fix seat belts saying the 15-day period was not sufficient, taxi and heavy vehicle drivers have cited practical issues. Taxi drivers have pointed out that while only two seat belts are available in the rear seat, three passengers are allowed. Meanwhile, truck drivers said many heavy vehicles do not have a seat belt even for the driver or their helpers.

Cabbies fear that this new rule could turn into another tool of harassment of poor taxi drivers who are already reeling under various regulations and fuel hike pressures. They also said that there should be discussions before implementing such schemes.

Also read: Mumbai: Citizens, activists point at lack of clarity in new seat belt rule

‘Need discussion'

Mumbai Taximen's Union leader Anthony Quadros said, "We seek discussions before this is implemented. The average speed of vehicles within city limits is less than 12 kmph and the majority of passengers travel for short distances. A major point of contention is that taxis are allowed to carry four passengers. This means three people occupy the rear seat, but the manufacturers provide only two seat belts for it. So, where does the third passenger sit?"

"Traffic police should not compare private cars with taxis. The accident ratio of taxis is almost nil, except for minor collisions. In this context, we believe that it should not be made mandatory for passengers in the rear to wear seat belts," he said, adding, "We have sought a meeting with the traffic police in this regard." mid-day also got in touch with private cab aggregators. While Uber said they were taking steps to ensure compliance, Ola did not respond to emails and phone calls. The Uber spokesperson said, "Safety is paramount at Uber. We've been educating drivers about the importance of having accessible and functional rear seat belts. We've also started giving our riders an option to report the absence of rear seat belts after a ride ends."

‘What about us?'

Heavy transporters have sought clarity on the matter as well as six months' time to get the seat belt rule implemented. They also pointed at the absence of seat belts in trucks. "The Mumbai traffic police order is quite confusing as there is hardly any clarity, as not all transport and non-transport vehicles come with seat belts. Does the order cover BEST buses, taxis, autos and maxi cabs which are not fitted with seat belts? Buses do not have seat belts for passengers and most heavy transport vehicles, such as trucks, do not even have seat belts for drivers or cleaners," said Bal Malkit Singh, chairman, core committee and former president of All India Motor Transport Congress.

He told mid-day, "The time period given by the traffic police is not enough, especially for motor vehicles that do not even have the provision of seat belts. The Transport Department must immediately clarify whether this order is applicable on goods carrying vehicles and trucks as well. We demand more time, of at least six months, and clarity on the matter first before it is implemented. The provision of fine can even be misused by field officers for want of clarity."

‘Need more time'

Former RTO officer KT Golani, who is also a member of the Welfare Organisation for Road Safety and Prevention of Accidents, said, "I strongly support the move regarding seat belts for all. However, the deadline for the same should be extended."

"The 15-day period given by the traffic police department was not enough for all four-wheelers in the city to have the seat belts installed. It requires manpower and time. While the circular has been issued in the right spirit, it was announced during the festive time when most workers are on leave. We are writing to the traffic police for clarity and more time," said Nitin Dossa, chairman of Western India Automobile Association.

‘School bus off the list'

Anil Garg, president of School Bus Owners' Association (SBOA), Maharashtra, said, "As per the Motor Vehicles Act, seat belts are not required for passengers in case of school buses. It will be impossible to have seat belts in school buses as the number of students keeps on increasing and decreasing, and depending on the age of the child, a seat accommodates two or three kids. Belts have been found riskier as small kids tend to play with it and may accidentally strap them around necks which could be dangerous."

No action till Nov 11

Mumbaikar's won't face challans for not wearing seat belts from today (November 1) as the traffic police have decided to first create awareness among motorists and passengers. Clear instructions have been given to traffic cops regarding action for not wearing seat belts. Citizens travelling in taxis or cabs that have seatbelts but are not wearing them, will be challaned by traffic cops. The drivers of such vehicles will not be fined. Challans will be issued to violators from November 11 onwards.

- Anurag Kamble