Save the foot overbridges for pedestrians, not cyclists

Occasionally the RPF takes action against the cyclists

Cyclists going past pedestrians while ringing their cycle bells loudly on the Matunga Z rail foot overbridge, that connects the eastern and western parts of the area, is turning into a menace for people crossing over.

A report in this paper detailed how commuters want the railways to put barricades at the bridge entrance to stop cyclists from entering. A line also says that the bridge is not very well lit. There have been instances of heated words being exchanged between cyclists and pedestrians on this bridge. We must see some action as this is a potentially dangerous situation, given that exchanges are taking place between those negotiating the space.

This is a foot overbridge by definition, so, it is the pedestrians who have the right of way. In this city, those who traverse by foot are literally pushed into corners, forced to walk into slivers posing as pavements. Most times, they put themselves in mortal danger, literally having to cross the road at hare's speed. Sometimes, they are forced to wend their way through traffic-snarled patches, weaving through vehicles idling at traffic lights.

In short, they have little to no rights and sparse space on roads and a scant regard for them. This is not to say that pedestrians do not put themselves at risk, jaywalking or crossing roads in a hazardous manner. That, notwithstanding, it is a given that our commuting network is hazardous for those on foot. So, if there is an overbridge, authorities have to see to it that this is well preserved and reserved for those it is meant for.

Sporadic attempts at action will not yield results. Signage at the entrances of the bridge warning of action and fine on cyclists/light bikers should be clearly spelt out. Meanwhile, barricading, if feasible, can do the job. More power and added decibels to the voice of pedestrians.