Bike racing creates panic in Perambur

Chennai: A late-night bike race by a group of youths on the Perambur flyover, Anna Salai and Aminjikarai triggered panic among motorists on Monday, with videos of the high-speed stunts circulating on social media.Motorists claimed such incidents continue across the city due to poor enforcement of rules and restrictions by the traffic police. On Monday, videos surfaced on social media showing a group of youths riding motorcycles at high speed on the Murasoli Maran flyover in Perambur.In one of the clips, a youth was seen filming another biker performing stunts while sitting on the flyover. Passers-by who attempted to record the incident were threatened by the bikers.Similar incidents were reported on Anna Salai and near the Skywalk area in Aminjikarai, where more than 15 youths engaged in bike racing from Wallajah junction to the Anna flyover late at night. The sudden racing and stunts caused panic among motorists and disrupted traffic.Police personnel attempted to intercept the bikers by setting up checkpoints. However, many of the youths managed to escape at high speed after spotting the police. A few suspects who were detained near a mosque on Anna Salai were later released following an argument between police and members of the public, leading to brief tension in the area."Bike racing continues unabated, especially during weekends. Police usually close the flyover thinking it will stop the races, but instead they should step up enforcement," said Kalaiselvan, a motorist.Based on video footage and CCTV recordings, police have launched a search to identify and apprehend those involved in the races.Meanwhile, police said strict monitoring is being carried out across the city to curb dangerous bike racing and stunts that endanger public safety. Traffic police have been conducting night patrols and vehicle checks in several areas.During recent enforcement drives on roads including Marina Beach Road, Anna Salai, Wallajah Road and the Perambur flyover, police seized 27 motorcycles from youths involved in illegal racing and imposed fines. City police warned that strict action would be taken against those indulging in reckless riding and stunts on city roads.