Bicyclists kidnapped in Iran
 

Just came across this on the BBC page this morning...

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/3300519.stm

Anyone know if this is on the main route between Iran & Pakistan?

In fact its the only route between Iran and Pakistan.

Comparing to Bam-Zahedan, after Zahedan road is even more isolated.

Bad to hear these kind of news.

Yes, the main road to Pakistan crosses this area.

Hi Guys,
Nothing unusual. This road has been iffy for a long time. I've done it three times, once by bus from East to West, once by bike from East to West, and a third time by bike from West to East, without any problems. Message: If you happen to be at the wrong place at the wrong time, your luck has run out. That's why we call it "adventure biking." If you don't like "adventure", stay home.

Generally speaking I agree, but the question is: which is the limit of the "acceptable risk"?

Hi

This area is a well known trouble spot but can be crossed relatively easily in one day. We saw no need to even stop in Zahedan and draw attention to ourselves.

As it's a the principle route into Pakistan, there's a lot of overland traffic so if anybody is travelling alone or worried, you could always chill out in Bam and form a small convoy. Safety in numbers and all that.

It is bad news about these cyclists though and I hope they are released swiftly and safely.

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Sean

Thankfully, according to the BBC web site the three bicyclists have been released (supposedly without even any ransom paid).

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/3352317.stm