Youngsters use bicycles as well as big tricycles with a carriage space at the back. PICTURE: Jayan Orma

By Ramesh Mathew
Staff Reporter

Pedestrians as well as motorists have complained of the “reckless” road habits of some young cyclists in Qatar.
Mostly teenagers, these cyclists could be seen zipping around on congested, narrow roads in residential areas as well as on some of the busier streets of Doha, they point out.
From performing “stunts” to riding in the opposite direction, these youngsters indulge in acts that often take other road users by surprise and can lead to serious situations.
A resident told Gulf Times that a young cyclist almost bumped into his vehicle at a roundabout recently. A collision would have left the youngster with serious injuries, he said.
Other commuters, too, have complained of similar cases, particularly in congested residential areas.
“Such teenagers usually go out in groups and give motorists a hard time with their 'stunts' and dangerous riding habits,” said a resident, noting that the teenagers use bicycles as well as big tricycles with a carriage space at the back.
While acknowledging that many cyclists follow the rules and do not pose any danger to other road users, another resident said: “There are people who take all necessary precautions and follow traffic rules while riding. Such cyclists do not pose any risk to themselves and other road users. However, there are some – mostly youngsters – who throw caution to the wind and zip around dangerously on their cycles in congested areas.”
Besides riding dangerously, these youngsters are also often seen without helmets and other protective gear, which exposes them to the risk of sustaining injuries in an accident.
Meanwhile, many residents have expressed concern over the situation in the Industrial Area, where the number of cyclists is high. Commuters say most cycles are seen plying without any lights in the evening. Inadequate street lighting in some places adds to the problem, they point out.
It is understood that along with pedestrian casualties, there have also been some fatalities involving cyclists in the past decade.
The authorities, on their part, have repeatedly urged cyclists to follow traffic rules and use protective gear while riding. But some people feel the situation needs better monitoring and effective steps are required to rein in errant cyclists, particularly youngsters.
Some residents also suggest that the creation of more cycling tracks will provide a viable solution. While such tracks have come up in certain areas, many other places do not have them and cyclists have no option but to use the main roads.