Ana Maria Fernandes writes: I often use pilot motorcycle when I cannot take my own. Imagine that when I sit on motorcycle taxi as pillon rider wearing a helmet which might have been used also by lamanins ? avois ghe maje mai .....I will also have to carry a detol bottle and sprinkle on my head to prevent germs sitting in my hair. I wish our Sudhin bab give us a demonstration sitting on motor cycle taxi with a used helmet and let us know how it feels. Sudhin Bab and Parrikar move about with posh cars and so they can make rules for others. We are poor middle class working people and have to oblige our bosses and go where we are sent and use vehicles that we are told to take. My job makes me travel to Margao, Bicholim etc and I use bus service and then have to take a motorcycle pilot when it is required. But immagine me using a helmet full of worms and germs. Please sympathise with me . Misere cordea?
My reply. Helmets have saved many lives throughout the world. It is mandatory in many countries for people riding any type of two wheeled contraption, including Bicycles to use helmets. It is for the safety of the Rider. I think it is a wise decision and one which should be enforced. Head injuries are the most common fatality when one is involved in and accident. With the reputation that India has of drivers and riders not adhering to the rules, I think it is prudent to have such laws. If one has to frequently travel by pilot, wouldn't it be prudent to own a helmet which one could use without having to worry about Lamanins worms and germs? Consider the amount you would have to spend for Detol each time and consider it an offset against the cost of the helmet. Manuel ( Eddie) Tavares
