Biker who inspired other women to take up riding dies while trying to avoid pothole in Mumbai

The tragedy occurred amid Mumbaikars growing frustrations with potholes on city roads.

A 36-year-old woman biker from Bandra was killed after she lost control of her Bullet on a pothole-ridden road from Dahanu to Jawahar Road, fell down and came under the rear tyre of a truck on Sunday morning.

An official from Kasa police station said, the biker, Jagruti Hogale, lost balance and her head came under the rear tyre of the truck she was trying to overtake. She could not spot the pothole as it was filled with water. The accident happened around 9am when Jagruti and two other women were on a road trip to Dahanu, 115 km from Mumbai.

Jagruti was a member of the 'Bikerni Motorcycle Club' - India's first all-female motorcycle group, which was started in 2011. One of the group's most active members, she had made trips to Leh and Ladakh. 

The tragedy occurred amid Mumbaikars growing frustrations with potholes on city roads. Several motorists complained about the shoddy work on these roads and complained that the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) officials were not taking enough efforts to keep a check on such incidents. They also accused the officials of colluding with contractors to ensure that they get away, reports NDTV.

Meanwhile, Congress leader RV Patil has demanded an FIR under IPC section 302 for the death of the woman.

"All roads not under PWD, govt has ordered inquiry, we are taking note of all the incidents; Road repair can take place only after rains," said Mahashtra PWD Minister Eknath Sambhaji Shinde.

In spite of BMC blacklisting seven contractors and arrest of BMC officials, the quality road has not seen improvement.

The pothole menace has been a major challenge for motorists. And for those riding two-wheelers, a pothole not only leads to a back breaking ride but also sometimes a life threatening one.

Biker groups mourn

Several biking groups took to social media to express their sorrow at her death. Many who had met her on expeditions or treks described her as 'bubbly' and energetic'.

Calcutta Rider's Fraternity called her an 'inspiration', saying her efforts had promoted biking among women across India.

OneIndia News