By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Oct 26: Come Sunday and the Guwahati-Shillong highway transforms into a racing track for superbike enthusiasts, with riders showcasing their high-speed machines and experiencing the thrill of the open road.
Riders from Shillong, Assam, and other areas converge on the highway, forming groups to savour the pulse-pounding excitement of the ride.
While most riders demonstrate responsibility by donning full safety gear and adhering to traffic rules, some groups of riders, however, speed without regard for safety, risking the well-being of both themselves and others.
The sight of superbikes has become a Sunday spectacle, drawing groups of young onlookers who eagerly await the bikers and often wave, hoping to hear the roar of the engines.
A young child, accompanied by friends, shared, “Today is Sunday, and we’re on holiday. We’re here to watch the bikers.”
While the responsible riders set an example, certain groups on modified bikes focus only on making loud exhaust sounds, sometimes gathering at a popular tea stall near a petrol pump on the Umsning Bypass.
Similarly, the Ri-Bhoi police, supportive of riders who prioritise safety, remain vigilant against those who disregard traffic rules.
From January to September 2024, the Nongpoh Traffic Branch conducted 36 motorcycle checks and three awareness programmes.
During the same period, they have also issued 263 challans under the Motor Vehicles Act (MVA) and impounded the same number of bikes.
Speaking on the issue, Ri-Bhoi Superintendent of Police, Jagpal Singh Dhanoa, said, “Our concern is only that while you ride, give importance to your and others’ safety as well.”
Dhanoa also made it clear that the police would not hesitate to take action against reckless riders.
Apart from Nongpoh, even Byrnihat Police Outpost carried out 22 motorcycle checks and held one awareness programme.
They also issued 156 challans and compounded an equal number of bikes under the Motor Vehicles Act.