The Bombay high court on Wednesday ordered the Maharashtra government to make it compulsory for drivers and pillion riders of two-wheelers to wear helmets.

Chief Justice C K Thakker and Justice Vijaya Tahilramani, however, allowed the government to enforce their directive in a phased manner.

The ruling comes after a Public Interest Litigation was filed by Ravi Shekhar Bharadwaj and seven others of Symbiosis College, Pune.

The judges said the government could take into account recommendations of various committees, appointed by the state, and suggestions made by the petitioners in this regard.

The court also asked the Maharashtra government to pay Rs 5000 -- the cost incurred in fighting the case -- to the petitioners.