TO address the alarming increase in road fatalities and incidents involving electric bikes, the government has tabled in the National Assembly, regulatory frameworks through amendments to the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic laws.

The new bill was introduced at the last sitting of the National Assembly by Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C.

The Bill defines an electric cycle as any motorcycle that has an electric motor and is fitted with an effective stopping system controlled by use of brakes, gears, or motor control. In practical terms, this means that electric cycles would be subject to the same rules and regulations as motorcycles when it comes to registration and use.

This includes requirements for safety standards, and other aspects of motor vehicle operation.

Nandlall, during his online show, “Issues in the News,” said that citizens and other bodies, especially from the private sector, have complained about how people are using electric bikes.

“People across the country are using these electric cycles, and we have received complaints far and wide that these electric cycles are being used in a manner dangerous to the public. They present a travel traffic hazard, and the persons who are riding these cycles are not equipped with helmets or any other protective gear… it is a dangerous situation,” the Legal Affairs Minister noted.

He continued: “We have received these complaints from the private sector. We have received this complaint from members of the public, users of the road have complained. If you look at a social media platform, you will see commentaries and commentaries about this conduct.”

In February, 17-year-old Bibi Sophia Mohammed of Non-Pareil Railway Embankment, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was killed, while her sister was hospitalised, following an electric bike accident along the Coldingen Public Road, ECD.

According to reports, the two sisters were on the electric bike when they were struck by a truck. The electric bike was being ridden by 16-year-old Maria Mohammed, while the now-deceased teen was the passenger. Neither was wearing protective gear.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has said that a further review of more measures to promote road safety is currently being undertaken.