Mumbai Commuters Protest Extra Helmet Storage Charges at Railway Parking Lots

Commuters using Western Railway’s parking lots in Mumbai have raised concerns over the imposition of extra charges for storing helmets. This additional fee, levied by parking contractors, has sparked discontent among riders, who view it as a deterrent to helmet usage.

The issue was highlighted by Adv. Prathamesh Prabhutendolkar, Joint Secretary of Dahanu Vaitarna Pravasi Sevabhavi Sanstha, in a letter to the Railway Board, the Minister of Railways, and the Minister of Road Transport and Highways. He expressed concern over the extra Rs 5 charge imposed at various parking lots, including Borivali West and Palghar. Prabhutendolkar argued that such charges undermine government efforts to promote helmet safety. He urged the authorities to take immediate action to suspend the helmet storage fee and encourage helmet use. However, a senior official from Western Railway clarified that the helmet storage charge is in accordance with the rules and regulations.

The contractor is responsible for handling and safeguarding the helmets, and the fee is a nominal charge for this service. Despite this explanation, many commuters remain unconvinced. They argue that helmets are essential safety gear and should not be subject to additional charges. They believe that this practice could discourage people from wearing helmets, potentially leading to increased accidents and injuries. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether the railway authorities will reconsider their stance on helmet storage charges. The issue has raised important questions about the balance between revenue generation and promoting road safety.