Bengaluru: Bengaluru Traffic Police has launched a unique social media campaign inspired by Studio Ghibli's animation style to discourage dangerous motorcycle stunts like wheelies. This comes after the department booked nearly 60 cases of wheelie-related violations on March 27, leading to the arrest of 45 individuals, including minors.

A wheelie involves lifting a motorcycle's front wheel off the ground while riding, a stunt often performed in groups for an adrenaline rush. Recognising the trend's popularity among youngsters, the police adapted the Ghibli aesthetic to deliver their message, stating, "Even in the whimsical world of Ghibli, wheeling is no fairytale – it's dangerous and punishable. For your safety and the safety of others, follow traffic rules. Ride responsibly!"

The campaign targets individuals aged 21-30, who, according to police data, are most likely to engage in such stunts. Officials say creative initiatives like this help connect with younger audiences and reinforce road safety awareness.

Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) M N Anucheth emphasised that wheelies pose risks not only to riders but also to other road users. He added that minors caught performing stunts often result in legal action against their guardians.

The issue has been severe in Bengaluru, with some areas like Old Madras Road, Tumakuru Road, Peenya Flyover, and the International Airport Road being hotspots for such activities. In one incident last August, frustrated motorists threw two scooters off the Nelamangala Flyover after catching riders performing wheelies on a busy road.

Police warn that those caught engaging in wheelies face fines of up to ₹25,000, vehicle seizures, and possible cancellation or suspension of registration certificates.

Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.



Bengaluru (PTI): Pacer Rasikh Salam Dar (4/24 ) returned with a four-wicket haul as Royal Challengers Bengaluru produced a clinical performance to notch up a five-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants in an IPL match here on Wednesday.

Sent in to bat, LSG never found momentum, with Mitchell Marsh (40 off 32) and Ayush Badoni (38 off 24) being the only notable contributors as they were bowled out for 146, their lowest total of the season.

Apart from Rasikh, Bhuvneshwar Kumar (3/27) and Krunal Pandya (2/38) also chipped in, while Hazlewood picked up one wicket.

In reply, opener Virat Kohli (49) set up the chase, while skipper Rajat Patidar (27) and Jitesh Sharma (23) also chipped in with quick runs as RCB overhauled the target, reaching 149 for 5 in 15.1 overs.

Price Yadav (3/32) and Avesh Khan (2/23) shared the wickets for LSG.

Brief Scores: Lucknow Super Giants: 146 all out in 20 overs (Mitchell Marsh 40, Ayush Badoni 38; Rasikh Salam Dar 4/24, Bhuvneshwar Kumar 3/27, Krunal Pandya 2/38).

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: 149 for 5 in 15.1overs (Virat Kohli 40; Prince Yadav 3/32).