Diepsloot cyclists step up to raise awareness
FOURWAYS - The Jozi Cycle Forum in partnership with the City of Joburg and the Greater Kyalami Conservancy (Gekco) organisation wants to raise awareness about the importance of cycling as a mode of transport, and its safety.
To this end the organisation would like to invite avid cycle enthusiasts to join them on a ‘Freedom ride’. The event will take place from 4.30pm at the Leaping Frog shopping centre on 16 March, and will include a safety talk and a 2km ride from the centre to the entrance of the Indaba Hotel down William Nicol Drive.
Safety helmets and reflective vests will also be handed out to those cyclists who need such equipment.
“This is one of the busiest roads in the province for cyclists commuting between Diepsloot and Fourways, as well as recreational riders,” said Gekco chairperson, Kristin Kallesen. “We want to acknowledge those who cycle between these areas on daily basis and encourage others to cycle too.”
Kallesen aims to highlight the plight of numerous Diepsloot cyclists who regularly face danger from reckless drivers on the road, and has gone out of her way to meet as many of these cyclists as she can. A WhatsApp group has also been created for the cyclists so they can share their thoughts and cycling experiences with her.
One of the cyclists, Owen Manda has been cycling the route for six years and expressed his dismay at how cyclists are treated by motorists on William Nicol Drive. “Some of my friends have been badly injured. Some have died after being knocked over by speeding taxis.”
Another cyclist, Charles Morotyi also expressed his views on motorist behaviour on the road. “Can’t say that all motorists are bad, but a few of them have been very rude to us cyclists.”
Gekco wants the new improvements on William Nicol Drive to include a safe cycle and pedestrian lane which taxis and impatient motorists can’t have access to.
Kallesen feels that would greatly improve the safety of these cyclists. “The current lane constructed on the pavement is regularly used by taxis during peak hour traffic and they have no regard for these cyclists,” she said.
“Show your support for safer roads for cyclists and raise awareness about bicycles as an eco-friendly mode of transport.”
Details: Gekco chairperson Kristin Kallesen 083 600 6091.
Will you join the Freedom Ride? Let us know in the comments section below.
