MONDAY, APRIL 29, 2024
KARSTEN MIRANDA
MARGAO: The cycling culture in Goa has grown by leaps and bounds - groups of cyclists covering long distances within the State and even venturing into neighbouring States, have now become a common sight. However, what many, including government authorities, have been turning a blind eye to, are the various difficulties these riders face on a daily basis.
From poor road conditions to perilous cross drains and the constant danger of speeding vehicles whizzing past them, the list of challenges is extensive and requires immediate attention.
The fact that several cyclists have suffered injuries while riding serves as another stark reminder of why these issues demand top priority.
Some cyclists shared their harrowing experiences after accidents. While they have since recovered, they fervently hope that necessary action will be taken to ensure Goan roads become safe for all fellow cyclists.
“A couple of years ago, I had a serious fall on the Borim bridge when the front wheel of my bicycle hit a hidden pothole, causing me to fly over the handlebars and land chest-first on the road, skidding for several metres. I sustained serious injuries,” said Ajay Dongre. “Many roads have potholes and uneven surfaces, making cycling uncomfortable and hazardous. I recently had an accident due to potholes on MDR road, resulting in severe rib injuries,” said Shashikant Naik.
“I fell victim to poor road engineering six years ago, fracturing my wrist and bruising my knees and elbows,” added Bryan Soares.
“My front tire got stuck in a drain hole near Powerhouse Aquem, causing my bike to throw me off, and I landed squarely on my face. Fortunately, my head was protected because I was wearing a high-quality MIPS helmet. I ended up with stitches all over my face, lips, and inside my mouth,” shared Sameer Nadkarni. In light of these challenges, conversations among cyclists have turned toward potential solutions.
“The tragedy in Goa and across India starts with motorists and the government failing to recognise that all roads primarily belong to pedestrians (with the first right of way), followed by cyclists, and then bikers. Cars, buses, and trucks should come last. However, our government in Goa and India continues to prioritise faster expressways for motorists, buses, and rucks, as if pedestrians and cyclists don't exist,” remarked Rahul Chandawarkar.
Soares emphasised that speed bumps and limits are not the ultimate solutions.
While cyclists agree that poor road quality was a significant issue, they also highlight the lack of adequate lighting on roads and dedicated cycling lanes as major concerns. They also pointed to the dangers posed by cross-drains, which have caused numerous accidents recently.
“Drain covers with gaps, both concrete/cement and metal ones, pose a significant threat to cyclists, particularly those riding on thinner 25mm or 28mm tyres. These tyres can get wedged in these gaps, leading to bad falls,” warned Carmo Sardinha.
“These cross-drain slabs used throughout Goa on all roads have become death traps for the cycling community, which has been promoting the Fit India initiative launched by our Prime Minister. Cyclists need to exercise caution when crossing these accident-prone areas, and the government/PWD should also exercise greater care during cross drain construction,” added Nadkarni.
Another common issue raised was the lack of respect shown by fellow road users. Cyclists felt this was a pan-India issue, not limited to Goa. “On the crowded traffic scene of Indian roads, many cyclists are bullied by drivers of vehicles such as cars, trucks, buses, or even motorbikes. Most motorists do not maintain the recommended three-metre distance from cyclists,” lamented Sardinha. “Reckless drivers on the roads – every single ride, we encounter numerous close calls. I’ve stopped riding on main roads and prefer less congested routes. Some cyclists have lost their lives after being struck by speeding cars,” added Dongre.
There is often a lack of awareness among motorists and pedestrians about sharing the road with cyclists, noted Naik.
The cycling community also expressed concern about the dumping of garbage by the roadside, which attracts stray cattle and dogs that sometimes chase cyclists, putting them at risk. There have been instances of cyclists being bitten by stray dogs.
Broken glass on the road has also caused tyre damage on several occasions. They pointed out that the challenges are compounded during the monsoon season, especially when potholes are concealed by water, making them difficult for cyclists to spot. Those who have fallen and lost their balance have suffered injuries, but the protective gear they insist on wearing has helped mitigate the damage to some extent. In conclusion, they suggested that road safety week programmes should emphasise respecting cyclists as an integral part of road safety and etiquette.
