Cyclist’s death at Mudaliyarkuppam raises safety issues

On Sunday, seasoned cyclist Charles Pradeep Kumar allegedly drowned near Mudaliyarkuppam backwaters as he decided to go for a swim while other cyclists were resting after an 80 km-ride. According to the group, no one was informed about his trip to the waterbody. This incident brings to light the lack of information on arrangements made by these groups before organising such rides. 

Often, people with similar interests meet on social media and go ahead with an adventure trip without knowing rules. S Umapathy, who was part of a day-trip to Pulicat lake, says, “I came to know about a weekend travel group of this app called Meetup. One of the members suggested that we go on a boat ride. Another suggested on WhatsApp that let us carry lifejackets with us. But when we reached the spot most of failed to bring the life jacket. We went on a ride and only later we realised that such rides are illegal.” Leisure boating was banned in 2012 after a boat capsized there killing 22 people. “There are groups that go swimming in a quarry pond using a rope alone as a safety measure,” says A. Sujith, an adventure junkie, adding that generally these groups don’t obtain permits. Those who organise rides and trips in the right way make people sign Indemnity Document where he/she is responsible for his or her safety. 

Ramanujar Moulana of Cycling Yogis, which organises several long-distance rides, says, “We have medical assistance ready for all our events. We have tied-up with an organisation called Alert that assists us during medical emergencies.” It is always recommended to go with support from established companies on such adventure trips as they work closely with locals and also takes permits in all the place. 

Arjan Kripal of Getupandgo that specialises in trekking, safaris, rafting and other adventure trips, says, “When there is an adventure, there is always the risk of getting injured. We work closely with locals and have at least two experts with us who ensure that no one wanders or moves on a unscheduled route.”