It is learnt that two-wheeler riders using a non-ISI mark helmet will have to pay a fine as the use of a non-ISI mark helmet will be treated as riding without a helmet. The traffic police authority has reportedly instructed traffic personnel to enforce the ban on non-ISI mark helmets since the use of substandard helmets do not offer adequate head protection in the event of a motor vehicle accident. ISI mark helmets are made using material that can withstand tough impact. ISI is a certification mark given to a range of products sold in India by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). As per the notification from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), it has been mandated that all helmets must bear the ISI mark from June 1, 2021. Insisting on two-wheeler riders to wear a helmet with an ISI mark is a step in the right direction.But how does the traffic cop check if the helmet the rider is wearing has an ISI mark when the vehicle is on the move? Since the ISI is marked in small letters on the helmet it will be almost impossible to notice it when the vehicle is on the move. Whether the cops will stop even those wearing the helmet to check if it has an ISI mark remains to be seen.
Antique church organ
restored for the future
It is very pleasant to note that an antique pipe organ at the Rachol Seminary, a very rare piece in Goa that belonged to the medieval-era, was restored to its original condition. The musical instrument will reportedly be played at every Sunday mass. Restoring the antique piece, which took almost two years, was indeed a tedious task and all those involved in the project need to be complimented for the efforts put in. It is understood that in Goa there are seven pipe organs from the late medieval era and the pipe organ at the Rachol Seminary is one of those still in working condition. Efforts need to be made to restore the other six pipe organs which exist in the respective parishes. These pipe organs are a piece of history and even if not in working conditions, they need to be available for public viewing in the respective churches so that future generations get a glimpse of these unique pipe organs. It must be said that the sound of the electronic keyboard does not have the same devotional effect as does the old pedal-operated church organ. These antique church organs need to be restored and if in working condition used by the church choir during the services.
