The Pedal Power Association (PPA) warns cyclists to be vigilant and avoid cycling in the Woodstock area this festive season, Cape {town} Etc reports.
This comes after cycling-related criminal activities in the Woodstock area have escalated, with more than 22 cyclists reporting incidents to the Pedal Power Association.
‘Attacks on cyclists over weekends have increased dramatically over the past 8 weeks as we head into the festive season,’ says CEO of the PPA Neil Robinson.
‘We are asking cyclists not to use the Woodstock Bridge area unless they must and never alone.’
According to the PPA, emails and hotline alerts notifying them of attacks have flooded in since November.
‘We have asked for signage to be erected on the corner of New Market Street, Woodstock and along the M176 Woodstock Lower Church Bridge and at the exit to Church Street from F W De Klerk Boulevard to warn cyclists of the immediate dangers in the area.’
‘We regularly alert cyclists of the criminal activities via our social media channels but with the influx of tourists expected in the city soon, it is crucial that signage is erected to warn cyclists of criminal activities in the area,’ says Robinson.
‘The PPA has compiled a map indicating the recent attacks in the Woodstock area in Cape Town and we ask that you share the map with your cycling groups and clubs,’ Robinson explains.
Robinson notes three areas of concern that cyclists need to take note of.
One attack was reported entering Church Street from FW De Klerk Boulevard, seventeen attacks along the Woodstock Bridge area and one attack along lower Church Street towards Albert Road.
Seventeen of the attacks targeted cyclists cycling alone early in the morning.
‘We are asking cyclists not to cycle in the area on their own. There are informal settlements on both sides of the bridge which makes it extremely unsafe,’ Robinson says.
‘The attacks mostly take place from 4h30 to 8h00 in the morning and we are appealing to cyclists to avoid riding in the area unless in a large group.
‘The attacks have now become violent as criminals are using weapons to threaten cyclists,’ Robinson says.
The PPA is in daily contact with authorities, urging increased patrols in high-crime areas. Crime targeting vulnerable commuters is a widespread issue, and frustrations grow due to the lack of consequences.
The PPA advocates for better policing, surveillance cameras, and partnerships with local authorities to ensure visibility and safety.
Cyclists and pedestrians have the right to safely use public infrastructure.
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Picture: Halden Krog / Gallo
