The errant street racers have been taking the law in their hands from many years now. The illegal activity has been under the scanner and making headlines as people have lost their lives as bikes speed away on the roads. In a recent incident, the dangerous street race proved fatal for a 55-year-old who was killed on the East Coast Road, Chennai. The motorsports fraternity in the city says that besides the public, young riders who indulge in street racing across the country must take a lesson from the accident.
The unsanctioned activity, commonly known drag race, is carried out by a bunch of irresponsible young riders. The recent race at ECR took its toll on an elderly man on the street. Going by the rules and regulations, bike races take place on exclusive tracks that ensure complete safety of racers as well as viewers. The Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) that organises the national championships takes into account the safety norms laid down by international bodies.
Moto Grand Prix driver S. Sarath Kumar said that bike races are a usual view on the streets and can cost more lives if not stopped completely. "We race in the best of conditions in the world championships. It is not just the track. We also undertake safety measures like using quality helmets, proper outfit and other equipment. Still, we cannot escape accidents. So how about those who have nothing to fall back on the streets," said Kumar.
K. Rajini, a bike racing enthusiast and regular participant at the Asian Grand Prix, said that helmets available in the markets were not made according to the safety norms. "Even for normal bike riders, the safety measures are not adequate in India," said Rajini.
Vicky Chandhok, President, Motorsports Association of India (MAI), appealed to the people saying that "Streets are not the place to race on bikes. We are ready to spare the MMST track at Sriperumbudur for the bikers at a nominal cost on alternate Sundays." Chandhok further added that more emphasis must be given on road safety in India and such incidents would definitely publicise the sport in a negative way.
Therefore, Indians must ensure that rules and regulations must be complied with in order to keep their as well as others' lives out of danger.
