Is wearing car seat belt effective in hills? Himachal govt approaches IIT-Mandi for expert opinion
The Newz Radar
SHIMLA: To assess the effectiveness of wearing seat belts in cars hilly terrains, the Himachal Pradesh government has sought a comprehensive report from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) at Mandi. The announcement was made by Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, who highlighted concerns about potential damage caused by wearing seat belts in the rugged topography of hilly areas.
The Deputy Chief Minister affirmed that the government was keen on obtaining a well-researched opinion from IIT-Mandi before making any decisions regarding the mandatory use of seat belts in the region. Currently, wearing seat belts remains obligatory for drivers, but the government aims to make an informed decision based on the findings of the prestigious institute.
“The decision to consult IIT-Mandi comes amid considerations of the unique challenges posed by hilly terrains and the apprehensions related to wearing of seat belts in such areas. The government is committed to prioritising safety while ensuring that measures are practical and suited to the region’s geographical characteristics,” said a government official.
In a related development, Agnihotri announced that over 1.15 lakh women in the state had been issued driving licences. To further empower and educate women in road safety, the Transport Department is set to organise a special workshop for women drivers.
The state currently boasts a vehicle count of more than 22 lakhs, with 19.25 lakh registered as private vehicles and 3.17 lakh registered as commercial vehicles. The number of electric vehicles (e-vehicles) stands at 2,811, with 2,412 being private and 399 designated as commercial.
The Transport Department has received 1,221 applications for e-taxi services, and there is a demand for 111 e-vehicles from various departments. Additionally, 1,263 applications have been received for 234 bus routes. Vehicle operators who have not yet deposited the special toll have until March 31 to submit it with a 10 per cent penalty.
