Overloaded Motorcycles: A Risky Ride

 

Overloaded Motorcycles: A Risky Ride

While traveling along NH-31, I paused at a roadside dhaba for a quick refreshment. As I sipped my tea, my attention was drawn to a curious and concerning sight—motorcycles and scooters dangerously overloaded with sacks of coal, speeding towards Ranchi. Their unusual method of transportation prompted me to capture the moment through my lens.

Upon inquiring, I learned that locals purchase coal from nearby collieries and transport it to the city markets using their two-wheelers. Though a resourceful approach, this practice comes with serious risks—both for the riders and everyone else on the road.

The Hidden Dangers of Overloading

Overloaded vehicles, especially motorcycles, pose significant safety threats:

• Accident Risks: Excessive load compromises a vehicle's balance, making it harder to control. This increases the likelihood of accidents, especially at high speeds or during sudden maneuvers.
• Brake and Tire Failure: The extra weight puts enormous pressure on brakes and tires, leading to overheating, wear and tear, or even sudden failure—particularly dangerous on downhill roads.
• Handling and Stability Issues: Overloading shifts the vehicle’s center of gravity, making it unstable and difficult to steer or stop quickly.
• Infrastructure Damage: The combined impact of many overloaded vehicles leads to the premature deterioration of roads and bridges, increasing public maintenance costs.
• Higher Operational Costs: Overloaded motorcycles consume more fuel, increase wear on parts, and may void insurance coverage. In many cases, riders also face hefty fines.

When Speed Meets Load

Today’s high-performance motorcycles are popular among the youth. Unfortunately, many are used not just for transportation, but also as makeshift cargo carriers. When these fast-moving bikes are overloaded and ridden recklessly, the results can be tragic—accidents, severe injuries, or even fatalities.

A Call for Awareness

Using motorcycles for transporting goods may seem economical, but the hidden costs—on health, safety, infrastructure, and vehicle maintenance—are far greater. It’s crucial to raise awareness about the risks and advocate for safer transportation practices.

Let’s all do our part to promote road safety and responsible vehicle use.

In Picture a person is driving an overloaded motorcycle.

📸 & ✍️ by Ashok Karan

👉 ashokkaran.blogspot.com
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