Bhubaneswar: A worrying 59% of two-wheeler riders involved in road accidents across Odisha in 2025 did not wear helmets, prompting authorities to intensify enforcement drives and awareness campaigns aimed at reducing fatalities on the state’s roads.According to Odisha police data, 12,782 road accidents were reported across the state last year, of which 5,664, or nearly 45%, involved two-wheelers. Of these riders, around 59% (3,341) were found riding without helmets. The consequences were often fatal, with at least 1,848 helmetless riders losing their lives in road crashes during the period.An analysis by the police also highlighted the life-saving role of protective headgear. “Of the 5,664 two-wheeler accidents, as many as 1,630 injured riders survived because they were wearing helmets at the time of the crash,” a police officer said.Police officials said the figures reveal a persistent disregard for basic safety norms despite repeated awareness campaigns and penalties for violations. “The data leaves little room for doubt. Helmets save lives. A significant number of deaths could have been prevented had the victims worn proper protective gear,” a senior traffic officer said.DGP (in-charge) Vinaytosh Mishra urged motorists to prioritise safety over convenience. “People often skip helmets for short trips, assuming nothing will happen. Wearing a helmet should become a habit, not a choice,” Mishra said.The police and regional transport officers (RTOs) have planned special enforcement drives targeting helmetless riding across the state. Authorities said checks have been intensified at major intersections, highways and accident-prone stretches. Simultaneously, awareness programmes are being conducted in schools, colleges and workplaces to encourage compliance with traffic rules.Road safety experts noted that head injuries remain one of the leading causes of death among two-wheeler crash victims. “A certified helmet can reduce the risk of fatal head injuries substantially. Enforcement is important, but behavioural change is equally crucial,” said road safety campaigner Subrat Nanda.Officials stressed that the objective is not merely to issue fines but to save lives. “Every rider who wears a helmet improves his or her chances of returning home safely. Road safety begins with individual responsibility,” said SP (Puri) Prateek Singh.