Helmets cannot be marketed without BSTI nod: home minister

Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan said yesterday that no helmet can be marketed without the certification of the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI).

The minister said: "Bike riders are often involved in accidents. Statistics show that more motorcycles are involved in accidents than buses and trucks. That's why we want to ensure the quality of the helmets of the drivers and riders."

"We have decided that helmets -- made at home or imported-- will only be marketed after the certification of the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI).

He made these remarks in a press conference after a meeting of a task force formed to strengthen discipline in the road transport sector and control accidents.

Drawing attention to the fact that BRTA is already conducting drives against unauthorised helmets, the minister said, "We are taking steps to implement it better."

Permission must be obtained before marketing, he added.

During his speech, the minister said service charges or donations cannot be collected from any place except terminals.

"Charges, tolls, and fees cannot be collected anywhere other than the city corporation's designated terminals," he said. "In other districts without a city corporation, these service fees may be collected at locations designated by the municipality or deputy commissioner."

The minister warned of legal consequences against those who extort money from people on the roads.

He also said those who want to set up driving training schools will require a BRTA licence.

"The ones that are currently operational will be monitored by BRTA. They can continue running those training schools only after getting the approval," he said.

The minister said it has been recommended to increase the manpower of the police to bring discipline in the road transport sector.