Sir: Motorcycle production has increased from 1.6 million to 2 million during the last six years in Pakistan. The main reason for this increase in production is that it is a cheap source of transportation. The rates of motorcycles have not been increased during the last many years. They have stayed between Rs 45,000 to Rs 48,000; hence it is within the reach of the common man. There are about 30 million motorcycles. With a concentration mostly in urban centres, the problem of safety on roads is bound to occur and increase because of non-existent driving rules for motorbike drivers. Licences are issued without any tests and no protocol is set. In countries like China, Vietnam, Taiwan and Thailand, where motorcycles are extensively used, bike riders are asked to drive on the left lane of the road only. They are looked after on the road as they can be an easy target of large vehicles. In Pakistan the situation is different. Bike riders are free to zig-zag into the traffic, which is very dangerous. City planners need to ensure that motorbikes and rickshaws are kept on the left side of the road. There are no accurate records available regarding motorbike accidents. There needs to be a concerted effort to keep the left side of the road clear of encroachments. The traffic authorities should ensure that all vehicles flow in their respective lanes. TAYYABA TAHIR Hyderabad