Docklands police blitz

Police will be keeping an extra close eye on Docklands’ road users in May, with the launch of a month-long operation in the area.

Operation Obviate aims to make the roads safer, particularly for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists.

According to Sen-Sgt Mick Wilmott, the operation will target Harbour Esplanade, Footscray Rd and Pearl River Rd, with the Melbourne Bike Patrol and uniformed members taking part in the operation.

“We see a lot of cyclists travelling down that thoroughfare in Docklands, so it’s appropriate to target that area,” Sen-Sgt Wilmott said.

“We realise there is a growing number of cyclists coming into the city and they are bound by road rules just as drivers are, that’s why we’re targeting this type of activity.”

Sen-Sgt Wilmott said the operation would focus on ensuring cyclists abided by road rules and safety regulations.

The operation will also focus on motorists and, in particular, distracted drivers, such as people using phones while driving.

According to Sen-Sgt Wilmott, incidents involving cyclists and motorists, such as car “dooring”, often involved distracted drivers.

He said targeting driver distraction in Docklands and the CBD was critical because of the concentrated number of pedestrians and cyclists.