Mon Jun 02 04:03:34 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

A growing number of cyclists in Chennai are being injured or killed due to accidents involving motorized vehicles. Despite wearing safety gear and following traffic rules, cyclists remain vulnerable due to speeding, poor road conditions, and lack of dedicated infrastructure. The article emphasizes the need for stricter enforcement of traffic laws, dedicated lanes for cyclists, safe parking spots, road safety education in schools, and government support for cycling initiatives. It argues that Chennai must prioritize the safety of cyclists by implementing better infrastructure and promoting a culture of safe bicycling.

**News Article:**

**Chennai Cyclists Face Mounting Dangers as Accidents Surge**

**Chennai, June 2, 2025** – The safety of cyclists in Chennai has come under renewed scrutiny following a series of tragic accidents, prompting calls for urgent action to improve road infrastructure and enforce stricter traffic regulations. Reports indicate a worrying trend of cyclists being injured or killed by speeding cars, buses, and other vehicles, highlighting their vulnerability on the city’s roads.

Recent incidents include a fatal accident on GST Road last year, where a young cyclist lost their life, and another where a woman suffered severe head injuries after being hit by a speeding car near MEPZ Oragadam. This year, two girls cycling to school were struck by a minibus due to a pothole on Theosophical Society Road, resulting in one fatality and serious injuries to the other.

“Despite cyclists adhering to safety guidelines like wearing helmets and reflective clothing, they remain at significant risk,” says Priya Darshini Tarakkad Arjunan, a member of Chennai Cyclists. “The city’s infrastructure is failing to protect its most vulnerable road users.”

Advocates are calling for a multi-pronged approach to address the issue, including:

* **Dedicated Cycle Lanes:** Creation and proper maintenance of dedicated lanes for slow-moving traffic, with penalties for encroachment by other vehicles.
* **Strict Enforcement:** Stronger enforcement of road rules and speed limits, particularly during school hours, along with zero tolerance for wrong-side driving.
* **Safe Parking:** Provision of secure bicycle parking facilities to encourage cycling for short commutes.
* **Road Safety Education:** Inculcation of vehicular equity in schools to promote on-road etiquette.
* **Government Support:** Collaboration between the government and organizations promoting cycling and non-motorized transport.

While the Greater Chennai Traffic Police’s “Zero is Good” road safety campaign was a step in the right direction, activists say ongoing, regular initiatives are crucial to foster a culture of safe bicycling. They emphasize the need to treat cyclists and pedestrians on par with other road users under the law.

As Chennai continues to develop, advocates argue that prioritizing the safety and well-being of cyclists is essential for creating a more sustainable and equitable transportation system. They point to successful models in other cities that have made significant changes to protect non-motorized transport users, urging Chennai to follow suit.

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