Sri Vijaya Puram, June 20: The Andaman & Nicobar Traffic Police urges all motorists, particularly parents and guardians, to prioritize the safety of children while travelling in vehicles. As per Section 194B (2) of the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019, any person who drives or permits a motor vehicle to be driven with a child below 14 years of age not secured by a safety belt or child restraint system (CRS) shall be liable to a fine of Rs 1,000.
It has been observed that many parents allow highly unsafe practices, such as letting children stand through the sunroof, sit on the driver’s lap while driving, or move freely inside the car without any restraint. These practices are extremely dangerous. Even during low-speed collisions or sudden braking, such unrestrained children are at high risk of being seriously injured or fatally thrown forward or out of the vehicle.
In view of these risks, the Traffic Police advises that all children under 14 years of age must be secured either with a seat belt (wherever applicable) or an appropriate child restraint system, depending on the child’s age and size.
While seat belts may be used for older children, it is recognized that small children cannot be safely fastened with seat belts alone. For them, child restraint systems such as booster seats or car seats are necessary. However, understanding that not all parents may immediately have access to these systems, a grace period of one month is granted for parents to procure and begin using appropriate CRS. This grace period is advisory in nature, with an appeal to parents to voluntarily comply in the best interest of their children’s safety.
Parents are strongly advised, wherever possible, to seat children in the rear seat of the vehicle and ensure they are appropriately restrained.
No act of carelessness is worth the risk to a child’s life. The Traffic Police appeals to all vehicle users to act responsibly and follow safety guidelines strictly.