GOACAN has issued a fervent call for the implementation of a dedicated road safety awareness plan tailored specifically for cyclists across highways, MDRs, and village roads in Goa. Addressing Superintendent of Police (Traffic), the advocacy group emphasized the critical need for proactive measures to safeguard cyclists on the roads.
World Bicycle Day, observed annually on June 3rd, holds global significance since its adoption by the United Nations General Assembly in April 2018. Recognizing the bicycle as a sustainable mode of transportation, fostering environmental stewardship and health, the day serves as a reminder of the bicycle's enduring significance.
Highlighting the urgency of the matter, GOACAN outlined several key points:
Historical Significance of Bicycles in Goa: Bicycles have long been an integral part of Goan life, yet they remain overlooked in road safety programs due to their exclusion from the Motor Vehicles Act.
Rising Incidents of Bicycle Accidents: Over the past 15 years, Goa has witnessed a concerning uptick in road accidents involving cyclists, resulting in injuries and fatalities.
Growing Popularity of Cycling: With an increasing number of individuals embracing cycling for transportation, fitness, and leisure, there is a pressing need to address infrastructure and safety concerns.
Infrastructure Challenges: Despite efforts to improve road networks, dedicated lanes for cyclists often remain underutilized, lacking proper signage and operational functionality.
Community Engagement: The surge in cycling enthusiasm, evidenced by the proliferation of cycling clubs and related activities, underscores the potential for community involvement in promoting road safety.
Impact of COVID-19: The pandemic-induced surge in cycling underscores the immediate need to address safety and traffic management issues affecting cyclists.
In its letter to the SP Traffic, GOACAN proposed a comprehensive roadmap for enhancing cyclist safety in Goa during the year 2024-25:
Sensitization meetings with cycling club representatives across Goa's traffic police cells.
Inclusion of bicycles and cyclists in upcoming State and National Road Safety observances.
Compilation of data on cycling-related accidents for informed policymaking and intervention.
Submission of road engineering recommendations to relevant authorities for immediate action.
Development of a specialized road safety awareness plan for cyclists in collaboration with stakeholders and local governing bodies.
Copies of the letter have been disseminated to key stakeholders, including government officials and department heads, underlining the collective commitment to prioritizing cyclist safety on Goan roads.
Roland Martins, Co-ordinator of GOACAN, reiterated the organization's dedication to fostering safer road environments for cyclists, urging concerted action from all concerned parties to effect meaningful change.