Petrol-CNG: A big step has been taken regarding road safety in Madhya Pradesh’s capital Bhopal and economic city Indore. From August 1, 2025, two-wheeler drivers without helmets will not get petrol or CNG at petrol pumps. Bhopal Collector Kaushalendra Vikram Singh and Indore Collector Ashish Singh issued orders in this regard on Wednesday, July 30, 2025.
This decision has been taken under the guidelines of the Supreme Court’s Road Safety Committee and Section 129 of the Madhya Pradesh Motor Vehicles Act 1988, according to which it is mandatory for two-wheeler drivers and riders to wear ISI marked helmets. The purpose of this order is to reduce road accidents and increase awareness about traffic rules.
However, the Petrol Pump Dealers Association has questioned this unilateral order, and the Indore mayor has demanded that helmets be made compulsory in government offices as well. This report highlights the details of the order, its challenges, and the socio-political reactions.
The collectors of Bhopal and Indore have taken this strict step in view of the increasing number of road accidents. According to the order, from August 1, 2025, fuel will not be given to two-wheeler riders without ISI marked helmets at all petrol pumps and CNG stations in Bhopal and Indore. This rule is in line with Section 129 of the Madhya Pradesh Motor Vehicles Act 1988, which makes helmets compulsory for two-wheeler drivers and riders.
Bhopal Collector Kaushlendra Vikram Singh said, “Not wearing a helmet increases the risk of death and serious injuries in road accidents. This order is to save people’s lives and ensure compliance with traffic rules.” Indore Collector Ashish Singh said in his video message, “This is not just a matter of fines, but a mission to save people’s lives. We want Indore to become a national model in road safety like cleanliness.”
Some exemptions have also been given in the order. Fuel can be given without helmet in case of medical emergency or accidental circumstances. This order will come into effect from August 1, 2025 and will remain in force till September 29, 2025. Action will be taken against the violating petrol pump operators under Section 223 of the Indian Justice Code 2023, which provides for fine and punishment.
The Petrol Pump Dealers Association has objected to this order, calling it one-sided. Association president Ajay Singh said, “There is talk of action against pump operators, but what action will be taken against drivers who buy petrol without helmets? The police have failed to catch those without helmets on the road.” He demanded that strict action should also be taken against drivers who break the rules, like issuing challan or seizing the vehicle.
Ajay Singh also said that it is practically challenging for pump employees to demand helmets from drivers. Many times, a situation of dispute can arise with customers, which raises questions about the safety of pump operators and employees. He suggested that the police and traffic department should take action against those who break the rules on the road itself.