DUBAI A group of bikers in Dubai is urging the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) to tighten the licensing process for two-wheelers and introduce more safety regulations.
As winter sets in and more people take their bikes out on the road, many in the biking community in the city have expressed concern over the ease with which people procure a licence while showing complete lack of awareness of safety measures.
“Authorities must do their bit to make the licencing process more stringent and give prospective riders an extensive training programme,” said Paul Tomlinson, a British expatriate bike rider.
“To get my licence all I did was a figure 8 and an eye test. I was given some basic instructions to follow and within a week I had my bike licence,” he said.
Jay Lawrence, another British rider, said: “A biker’s driving licence is usually included in the regular four-wheel driving licence. There is a yellow box at the back of your driver’s licence - which is for a two-wheeler. This does not carry a date next to it. I have a problem with that as it must mention the time-line of the licence holder,” he said.
“The majority of the people taking a two-wheeler licence in Dubai are delivery boys. Many of them are not aware of safety rules and regulations for riding a two-wheeler. They don’t wear a proper helmet and, even if they do, they don’t strap it. Just like four-wheel drivers are fined for not wearing seatbelts, bikers too must be fined for not strapping their helmets,” said Jay Lawrence.
Where’s the safety gear?
Tomlinson also expressed concerns over people not wearing minimum gear while riding big bikes. “Whether you are riding a scooter or a burly Harley Davidson, it is recommended you wear proper shoes, jackets and trousers. It’s horrifying to see people ride in just T-shirts and shorts. They can get hurt easily even if there’s a minor mishap,” he said.
Lawrence agrees. “I once saw someone riding a sports bike with flip flops. It’s absolutely wrong but people don’t care. Therefore, a safety campaign programme for bikers is much needed in Dubai.”
Rohit Pawan, a biker for 18 years in the city, said many two-wheeler motorists also don’t pick the right bike for themselves. “Authorities must let beginners or newly licensed bikers only ride a 250cc engine bike for a period of time. They are new on the roads and must take it slow before they decide to take on the big bikes.”
Ahmad Hashem Bahrozyan, CEO, Licensing, RTA, said: “Since 2010 there have been a lot of changes in the licensing process for two-wheelers. Today, those applying for one have to bring their own helmet, glass, a knee protection and safety shoes. Without this, nobody will be allowed in for training. Plus it is now mandatory for all students to take 30 practical lessons and eight lectures. A separate two-wheeler licence is in the pipeline.”
