Cyclist have Rights on the roads

26 June 2017

It is extremely sad! Life of a young and promising sportsperson at his 17 years best was the latest victim as a cyclist in the fast growing Imphal capital city. Shijagurumayum Rishikanta, second son of Sh Nilamani and Hemabati of Khurai Thangjam Leikai was mowed down by a speeding Prisoner Van on 17th June, 2017 at Minuthong Bridge.

Rishi was out to repair his cycle with a friend on that fateful day. Rishi studied was a Class X student at the Sawombung High School. His father wanted him to take the diesel auto to his school but he insisted on and preferred to cycle as a blooming sportsperson.

He loved his cycle which he bought with his prize money and savings. He had won many gold medals in Wushu and Vovinam. It was a great loss, indeed!

Number of cyclists killed in road accident is increasing and yet there has been no visible sign of Government taking note and making safety measures for cyclists and pedestrians. This is more disturbing and discouraging for remaining cyclists and pedestrians on the roads.

Cyclists also have equal right on the roads. Cyclists contribute more to making the city a people and environment-centred one.

Cyclists and pedestrians occupy the least space; they make the roads last longer thus saving money on road repairs; they save (fuel) money every day for their children and family and they give healthy air to breathe for all, no noise pollution is an added benefit!

However, the number cyclist killed by road accidents are increasing and yet there has been no visible concern shown by the government in at least trying to understand why cyclist are getting killed.

But we cyclist know. They are killed because there is no proper space for cyclist on our roads exposing them to fast moving vehicles. Even the road sides are not sparred as cars and motor bikes have used as parking lots.

There are no safe cycle lanes, and there is an element of intentionality by the concern department(s) where road designs, funding, traffic control etc all are geared for cars only.

This young person who died was asked by his father not to cycle for it is too dangerous, and this death will add to fear forcing people not to cycle. The new government’s commitment to public transport is appreciable, however, they need to convince people that it is safe to walk and cycle as they constitute the highest users. We believe we can create Imphal as a City of Cycles.

Ram Wangkheirakpam
President, Manipur Cycle Club
Chingmeirong Maning Leikai,
Imphal East-795001.
Tel: +91 385 2422269.