Set aside parking stations for oBikes

THE bicycle sharing concept began in Europe in 1965. It became widely popular in mid-2000 with the advent of information technology.

The oBike was launched in Malaysia in conjunction with the 29th Kuala Lumpur SEA Games. It is a network of rented bicycles that help people reach their destinations.

The concept of oBikes is very good as it encourages people to use bicycles which are noise and air pollution free. Furthermore, it encourages a healthy and active lifestyle.

However, I noticed a few shortcomings with this ecofriendly concept.

Firstly, the oBikes have become an eyesore to the public as these bicycles are left by the roadside. There are no proper designated areas to park them.

Unlike in London, the Santander Cycle users have to park the rented bicycles at designated docking stations.

Secondly, the oBikes are not properly maintained. I have seen punctured oBikes, bicycles being cannibalised for spare parts or covered in graffiti. I doubt that there are any monitoring or servicing teams.

Finally, there are risks for accidents as there are no dedicated bicycle lanes for oBike users.

The users are mostly people who may have never cycled on the road prior to renting these bicycles, increasing the risk of accidents due to inexperienced road cycling.

The company providing oBikes should set up specific parking stations for people to park the rented bicycles and there should be continuous servicing and repairs to ensure customer safety.

ADAM AZUZAY Ampang