Gopalganj: For the past 11 years, Shahid Imam, a resident of Sareya Ward No. 4 in Gopalganj’s Sadar block, has been on a personal mission to raise awareness about the importance of wearing helmets. Known as the ‘Helmet Man’ in the district, Shahid has been distributing helmets for free to those who ride without them on highways, educating people on road safety. What makes his campaign stand out is that he funds it entirely from his own pocket, spending approximately Rs 1.5 lakh annually without external support.
Shahid, a computer teacher by profession, runs a coaching centre and owns a computer accessories shop. His decision to embark on this mission was rooted in a personal tragedy. His close friend, Rahul, who was a computer distributor, died in a road accident. “When I reached the spot, I saw that Rahul had no injuries except for a head wound. That was when I realized that a helmet could have saved his life,” said Shahid, reflecting on the incident that ignited his campaign.
The loss of his friend was not the only driving force. Shahid soon witnessed another tragic road accident, where a couple lost their lives. This further solidified his resolve to prevent road fatalities. “I could no longer bear the thought of anyone else losing a loved one to something preventable. I knew I had to do something to raise awareness about helmets and road safety,” he said.
Determined to make a difference, Shahid began distributing helmets and educating people on the roads of Bihar, especially on National Highways (NH), about the life-saving importance of wearing helmets. His approach was simple: don’t wear a helmet to avoid the police, wear it so that you can return home safely to your family.
Shahid’s campaign has grown steadily since its inception in 2013. He regularly organizes programs at schools, colleges, and public spaces to promote helmet use and road safety. Using handbills, posters, and social media, he has reached thousands, ensuring that his message resonates far and wide.
“I tell people that a helmet can save them from serious head injuries. I also explain that road accidents are like an invisible war. We need to fight against it by being cautious and aware,” Shahid explains. He has also trained two forest personnel under the World Wildlife Fund to assist in his campaign, ensuring that his message spreads even further.
Shahid’s family has been supportive throughout his journey. His two brothers, both married and settled, stand by his efforts, helping him as much as they can. “There has never been any objection from my family. They understand why I am doing this, and they support me wholeheartedly,” he adds.
Over the past decade, Shahid has distributed more than 10,000 helmets, ensuring that more lives are protected on the roads of Bihar. His efforts are not confined to Gopalganj; he has expanded his campaign to other cities like Siwan and Chhapra, where he continues to raise awareness alongside his dedicated team.
Through his unwavering dedication to road safety, Shahid has become a local hero. Many individuals who have come into contact with his campaign have adopted the habit of wearing helmets, a small but crucial change that could save countless lives.
Despite running the campaign for over 11 years, Shahid remains humble about his achievements. “I spend around 10 percent of my earnings on this cause, which amounts to around Rs 1.5 to 2 lakh per year. For me, it’s worth every penny if it means saving a life.”
Shahid Imam’s work in Bihar has undoubtedly saved lives, and his message continues to inspire young people to prioritize safety on the road. He sees road accidents as preventable tragedies, and he has devoted his life to ensuring that fewer families have to suffer the loss of a loved one.
“I want the flame of awareness to burn within people so that no more funerals are held because of road accidents,” Shahid concludes with conviction.
