Surge in accidents involving bicyclists

Manama : There has been an alarming increase in the number of bicyclists involved in traffic accidents, with 45 accidents causing two fatalities and 43 injuries this year, according to a senior official from the Traffic Directorate . 

Traffic Culture Director at the Directorate of Traffic Lt. Col. Osama Bahar stressed the importance of bicycle safety pointing the data on bicycle accidents in recent years. 

He explained that the Directorate has taken new measures to curb the number of accidents. “Awareness is key element. We are concentrating not only on bicyclists, but also on other road users,” said Bahar.

 He explained that the Directorate is working with social organisations to spread awareness about bicycle safety. “Most bicycle users are expatriates,” said Bahr. “We are coordinating with clubs, social organisations and embassies for awareness. 

He urged private companies to exercise their corporate responsibility by sponsoring safety gear for bicyclists, especially for low paid
workers, who cannot afford good quality safety equipment. 

“Quality of the equipment they use is dissatisfactory and not up to the standard. We cannot blame the users since proper gear is expensive and beyond the reach of many.” he said.