# Low-quality helmets sold roadside to help bikers avoid fines, raising safety concerns for passengers

> In Dhaka, street vendors sell low-cost helmets to ride-sharing drivers to avoid fines, but these often compromise passenger safety. Most helmets, priced 100–500 BDT, are locally made, low-quality, and lack BSTI approval…

Published: 2026-01-08 · Desk: Latest · Source: The Business Standard

In Dhaka, street vendors are selling low-cost helmets to bikers, helping them avoid fines. While these helmets are convenient for ride-sharing drivers, they compromise passenger safety. Ride-sharing driver Nurul Huda said he often buys a helmet for 100–300 BDT from under the Asadgate footbridge when passengers don’t have one.

Vendors say they primarily sell “fine-avoidance helmets,” averaging 20–25 sales per day. Although helmet use is mandatory, most helmets sold on the street are of low quality. Vendors explain that expensive helmets cannot be sold on footpaths, so most are locally made and inexpensive.

According to shopkeepers in Banshal, many helmets lack BSTI approval and are made from mixed or recycled plastics. Shopkeeper Sohel said, “Helmets priced between 200–500 BDT usually don’t have BSTI certification.”

Passengers also note these helmets are unsafe. Regular ride-sharing user Suman Malakar said, “Often, these helmets may not protect me; sometimes I have to hold onto them myself.” Despite knowing the risks, demand continues due to the low prices.

Original reporting: https://www.tbsnews.net/bangla/feature/news-details-435961
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