THE craze of one-wheeling has been increasing alarmingly in Pakistan. It appears to be one of the more adventurous and thrilling activities for youngsters who mostly hail from modest backgrounds. However, the practice is as dangerous for those who participate in it as it is disruptive for the rest.

More significantly, it is also one of the leading causes behind a high number of fatal accidents, damaging vehicles and destroying families. According to media reports, more than 600 accidents were reported in Lahore in 2020 alone due to one-wheeling. According to another report, more than 300 young one-wheelers died in crashes and accidents across the country. At the same time, the financial losses incurred to family and friends was said to be in the millions.

On the New Year’s Eve this year, hundreds of one-wheelers were seen on roads performing dangerous stunts. They were arrested by the police, but were released the next day.

Though the traffic authorities have banned one-wheeling in several cities and occasionally crack down on the culprits, more needs to be done to discourage the youth from taking part in this dangerous activity.

The authorities should take steps, including setting up check-posts and launching a media campaign to raise awareness among the people. Also, the government should run an advertisement-based campaign in the national media.

However, some responsibility also rests on the shoulders of parents who should do their utmost to discourage their young loved ones from indulging in this activity. In many instances, lack of adequate parental supervision leads to the young finding pleasure in activities that has the potential to prove highly damaging to health and can be even fatal.

It is unfortunate that a considerable number of parents take a casual approach towards this activity and take no measure to put a stop to it.

On the part, the youth should stop looking up to the one-wheelers and stop admiring them for their misplaced courage to execute manoeuvres. The risks far outweigh the thrill one is believed to feel in such a scenario. It is just not worth it.

The authorities, the parents and the civic authorities should together do all they can individually and collectively to discourage the menace of one-wheeling and to ensure the safety of our youngsters.

Muhammad Usman UL Ehsan
Rawalpindi

Published in Dawn, February 13th, 2022