“Srinagar and Jammu cannot afford to let public roads become arenas for dangerous motorcycle stunts. Strict enforcement, public awareness and parental responsibility must go hand in hand to curb this growing menace.”
The growing menace of stunt biking on the roads of Srinagar and Jammu calls for urgent and sustained intervention. What some young motorcyclists consider an expression of adventure, thrill or display of riding skills is, in reality, a dangerous practice that puts their own lives and those of innocent road users at grave risk. Public roads are meant for safe transportation, not for performing high-speed manoeuvres, wheelies, dangerous overtaking or other acts of reckless riding. The recent drive launched by Srinagar Police against stunt bikers is a welcome and timely intervention. It reflects the need for a firm approach towards those who repeatedly violate traffic regulations and endanger public safety. Such enforcement initiatives deserve appreciation, but more importantly, they must be sustained and replicated across other vulnerable areas, including Jammu city, where reckless riding also poses a serious challenge to road safety. Stunt biking is not merely a traffic violation; it is a public safety concern. A motorcyclist performing a wheelie or weaving through moving traffic at high speed has little control over the consequences of a sudden obstruction, an unexpected pedestrian crossing or a vehicle changing lanes. Even a minor miscalculation can result in a fatal accident. Pedestrians, cyclists, motorists and passengers who have nothing to do with such reckless behaviour often become unintended victims. The problem becomes more concerning when such activities are recorded and circulated on social media platforms. In an attempt to gain popularity, online recognition and followers, some youngsters imitate dangerous stunts performed by others. The desire for instant attention has, in certain cases, overshadowed the basic understanding that roads are shared public spaces governed by rules and responsibilities. Social media platforms must also discourage the glorification of dangerous riding practices rather than allowing reckless behaviour to be presented as entertainment or an achievement. Srinagar and Jammu, both witnessing increasing traffic pressure, cannot afford such additional risks. Their busy roads, commercial centres, residential localities and pedestrian-heavy stretches demand greater discipline from every road user. Reckless bikers not only threaten lives but also create panic, disturb traffic movement and undermine the efforts of traffic personnel working to regulate an already challenging road environment. While police action is essential, the response must extend beyond occasional crackdowns. Traffic Police and district police units should identify vulnerable stretches and locations frequently used for stunt riding and intensify surveillance there. Regular enforcement drives, CCTV monitoring and action against repeat offenders can help create a strong deterrent.
“Public roads are not racing circuits or stunt arenas, and dangerous stunt biking must be stopped before it costs more lives. While Srinagar Police’s recent enforcement actions are commendable, long-term success requires sustained effort, inter-agency coordination, and public cooperation. Authorities in Jammu must also step up preventive measures to ensure impartial, consistent enforcement targeted at reckless behavior rather than age or vehicle choice, ensuring repeat offenders face strict consequences.”
Motorcycles found being used for dangerous stunts should be dealt with strictly under the applicable provisions of law, including appropriate action against the riders and vehicles wherever legally warranted. Equally important is the role of parents and guardians. A motorcycle is not a licence to disregard public safety. Parents must exercise responsibility before handing over powerful two-wheelers to young and inexperienced riders. They should remain aware of how their children use vehicles and discourage any attempt to imitate dangerous stunts. A moment of thrill can leave a family grieving for a lifetime. Educational institutions, too, have an important role to play. Awareness programs on road safety, responsible riding and the legal consequences of reckless driving should be organised regularly. Young people must understand that riding skills are demonstrated through discipline, control and respect for traffic rules, not by risking lives on public roads. There is also a need to provide constructive alternatives. Those genuinely interested in motorcycle sports should be encouraged to pursue their passion through authorised motorsport clubs, trained instructors and designated tracks under proper safety arrangements. Public roads must never become substitutes for professional racing circuits. At the same time, enforcement must remain impartial and consistent. The objective should not be to target young people merely because of their age or choice of vehicle, but to hold accountable those whose conduct violates the law and threatens public safety. Repeat offenders must face appropriate consequences so that the message reaches beyond those directly apprehended. The initiative taken by Srinagar Police deserves appreciation, but its success will ultimately depend on continuity, coordination and public cooperation. Jammu Police and Traffic Police authorities must also intensify preventive measures and ensure that such dangerous practices do not become normalised. The message must be unambiguous: public roads are not stunt arenas. No social media recognition, momentary excitement or display of bravado is worth a human life. Srinagar and Jammu need safer roads, responsible riders and an enforcement system that leaves no room for reckless behaviour. It is time to put the brakes on stunt biking before another preventable tragedy strikes.
