The problem of stunt driving and riding is taking an alarming proportion in the state. The Shillong Traffic Police have been making noises when it comes to calling on motorists and riders through warning notices, notes on social media but these have never be a good deterrent especially for the young blood who dreams to ride into the distant horizon speeding and stunting away to glory with modified cars and bikes on public roads.
Wheelies and other stunts may be legal in designated areas and motorsport arenas, but they are illegal on public roads. Yet youngsters just refuse to allow common-sense to get the better of their bravado because they are driven by adrenaline rush and for instant social media fame. The stunt bikers and riders not only risk their lives for adventure, but also pose danger to others.
Traffic department seems to wake to the nuisance only when pointed out by citizens. In the absence of police patrols during the festive holidays the young bloods indulge in misadventure using their cars and bikes were up on social media. Residents of some localities have been complaining about young boys racing their vehicles but little can be done unless authorities adopt strict law enforcement that can serve as the best deterrent.
In the past decade (2014-2023), around 15.3 lakh people lost their lives in road accidents in India. This spine-chilling report underscores the urgency of adopting a comprehensive approach to address the contributing factors to these accidents, including speeding, reckless driving, drunken driving, and non-compliance with traffic regulations. It is also crucial to strengthen enforcement mechanisms and invest in improving the condition of roads on the part of the government as well as to rein in stunt bikers and riders lest it claims lives.
Nevertheless, parents need to take a call wisely to prevent their children from venturing into this misdemeanour by seeing if they have modified the bike in any manner for the dangerous stunts. It is also up to riders and drivers to behave responsibly and stop turning the road into a stunt stage. The reality is that those who are trained professionals know how to control vehicles very well and use tracks to stunt and race.
