A growing hazard on roads?

WHILE two-wheelers are a convenient option for short-distance commuting, especially in smaller towns, they have raised significant concerns regarding safety and traffic disruption. Should parents bear some responsibility?

Last week, Al Dakhiliyah Governorate Police Command arrested 30 motorcycle drivers for violating traffic rules and regulations and for obstructing traffic and disturbing public comfort in the Wilayat of Bahla.

Legal procedures have been completed against them.

Abdullah al Balushi who has reacted to the news, says, “There has been a noticeable increase, and we do not know the exact reasons. For young people, there must be an arena for racing on sand bikes. We may produce talents who may go on to participate in international tournaments, but as for what is happening on the roads, it is necessary to take strict action.”

“Unfortunately, this phenomenon is increasing, and has only ended with setting up laws and rules for the movement of all types of bicycles on public roads,” said Khalid al Yaqoubi.

Biking is much appreciated in Oman and there are numerous bikers clubs and associations.

However, movements of bikers from the associations are organised and done with prior permission.

International biker, Maher al Barwani, who has travelled to many parts of the world from Oman on his bike, is of the view that all bikes must be registered.

“The bike seller must register the bike he is selling with the plate number. This will help in having control. And they tend to have chips in the bikes that are registered as well,” said Maher.

“I have seen sometimes bikers accompanying the wedding procession or the vehicle of the groom and bride. The group of bikers can range from 60 to 80 and at times even 100. This number of bikes can create many issues on the road and at times disturb the traffic. It can even lead to road accidents,” he pointed out.

Maher also urged the youngsters to wear safety gear.

“They may not have licences but what is important is to be cautious and this is by wearing appropriate shoes, jacket, gloves, and most importantly helmets,” explains Maher.

He noted that punishment might not work at this age because they might not understand the impact of their mistake but they will do so once they attain their licence.

He suggests, “It would be ideal if they can go through a mandatory training course for a week, as they purchase the bike from the dealer. The course could be from the traffic institute and passing the course must be a prerequisite.”

“In Muscat there are limitations but in Al Dakhiliyah, for example, there is potential to ride freely, but can also disrupt main roads.”

He noted that in some countries they have dedicated tracks for motorbikes and that keeps the bikes safe and they have options when they want to be adventurous.

“The young bikers need to remember that they need to be more mature while riding a bike as motorbikes are weapons and if they do not know how to use them correctly it can kill them and if they use it correctly they can be safe. There is no point in punishing parents but they should sit with their children and guide them,” warned the biker.