Last Friday, a horde of helmetless motorcyclists paralyzed traffic in Neiva, traveling against traffic and using sidewalks. This incident highlights the municipal authority's failure to address abusive behaviors and excessive noise. Local officials are questioned for not exercising effective control.
Last Friday, the calm in Neiva was disrupted by a large group of motorcyclists, many without helmets, who halted traffic, traveled against the flow on main roads, and used sidewalks to move. This is compounded by the abusive behavior of some motorbike drivers, who ignore red lights, block pedestrian crossings, and disregard pedestrians' right of way.
Additionally, the city deals with frequent late-night vehicle circulation featuring giant speakers blasting music, and rumba establishments operating without time limits, exceeding permitted decibel levels. While a mayor, government secretary, and mobility secretary exist, questions arise about whether they fully perform their duties or merely collect salaries, pose for photos, and give interviews.
In contrast, Bogotá's mayor banned motorcycle and pillion rider circulation in certain zones during a holiday weekend, achieving positive results despite blockade attempts. In Neiva, however, authority appears absent because those who hold it do not exercise it. Tow trucks from Mobility collect poorly parked motorcycles in non-problematic areas, especially Fridays before holidays, but agents are missing where vehicles act with impunity.
This chaos is not new but has worsened in recent years without officials showing the resolve to confront it. Law 2450 of 2025, the anti-noise law, proves useless if enforcers are preoccupied elsewhere. It is regrettable that in Neiva, authority does not lie with the mayor or officials due to lack of backbone; the law of the strongest prevails. As long as motorcyclists act in packs or noise producers hold sway over regulators, the city will not find order.