As bicycle sharing proliferates and gathers speed, the problem with irresponsible cyclists is only going to get worse. Instances of illegal parking, vandalism, and bikes being thrown from flats and strewn all over HDB estates are common these days.

Some cyclists simply do not care, because they know that without a registration number on their bicycles, the authorities cannot do very much. Such behaviour cannot change unless the Government acts on it.

In order to properly manage and control these errant cyclists, it is vital that there be accountability.

The current law does not allow the HDB or town councils to issue summonses or fines to irresponsible cyclists or their companies, even though these offences have been committed in common areas. Only the Land Transport Authority has the power to do so.

That needs to change. The HDB, town councils as well as grassroots organisations should be empowered to take enforcement action, under its by-laws, against the bike companies.

The Government and the authorities must do more to expect compliance from these recalcitrants.

Also, the authorities need to act quickly. Procrastination will only make it more difficult to arrest the present situation.

David Kwok Ng Kan