A startup based in Delhi has introduced an innovative anti-pollution helmet designed to enhance the respiratory experience of two-wheeler riders by filtering the air they breathe. Named ‘PUROS,’ the helmet is the creation of Shellios Technolabs, featuring an integrated air-purifying system at the back.

Equipped with a Brushless DC (BLDC) blower fan, a High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter membrane, and an electronic circuit, the purifying mechanism draws in external air, filters it, and then delivers it to the rider. Additionally, the helmet includes a micro-USB charging port and a Bluetooth-enabled app that notifies the rider when it’s time for cleaning.

Concerned about the adverse health effects of air pollution, especially on the millions of daily two-wheeler commuters exposed to particulate matter and vehicular emissions, Amit Pathak, one of the startup’s founders, expressed the motivation behind the development.

The Ministry of Science and Technology, along with Technology Entrepreneur Park (JSSATE-STEP) Noida, has provided funding for this initiative, and the helmet has been granted a utility patent. Priced at Rs 4,500, the helmet is available nationwide and complies with all necessary standards, claiming an 80% reduction in exposure to polluted air.

Weighing over 1.5 kg, the helmet is touted to be effective during the challenging air quality situations that Delhi encounters, particularly in the winter months. The startup has plans for a future version in collaboration with a leading tier-2 two-wheeler OEM to further commercialize this anti-pollution helmet.