ALL bicycle owners in Bahrain could be obliged to have a small but visible registration plate attached to their bikes to help identify the culprits who scratch car paintwork, crack light fittings and snap mirrors.
Councillors claim two-wheeled menaces have resulted in several complaints from motorists and the proposal has been forwarded by Northern Municipal Council chairman Ahmed Al Kooheji to the Cabinet for review.
“Bicycles are used on main roads and neighbourhoods and should follow the same system as other vehicles – cars and motorbikes – which require number plates, registration and insurance, amongst other requirements,” said Mr Al Kooheji.
“The very least we should do is require cyclists to register their machines and ride around with proof in the form of a small but visible number plate.”
Mr Al Kooheji had earlier suggested that cyclists pay an annual registration and insurance fee of BD5 each to cover the cost of any accidental damage they may cause … but later withdrew it following a ‘public backlash’.
The idea has not disappeared though. Capital Trustees Board chairman Saleh Tarrada believes insurance should be introduced too to thwart the ‘scratch-and-go’ cyclists.
“There is basically insurance nowadays for everything and anything and I believe that this should be introduced on bicycles,” he said.
“People get their cars scratched or damaged by careless cyclists and have to pay for repairs out of their own pockets, despite it not being their fault.
“At the same time, insurance would also ensure that should a rider slip, fall or get hurt without any other party being involved, they would be covered, for example, for medical expenses, plus other benefits as well as peace of mind.”
In March 2018 the GDN also reported on a new rule instructing cyclists to wear safety gear, such as helmets, while using Bahrain’s roads or face being fined. Municipal councillors have claimed that the authorities appear to no longer enforce the measure.
Councillors claim the proposed actions aimed to make cycling safer, for those using bikes to exercise as well as those using cycles to deliver fast food for neighbourhood restaurants.
If approved, the Interior Ministry would issue all rules alongside obligations in the Official Gazette.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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