The Star Malaysia - Star2

Cycle city = happy city

- > FROM PAGE 18

instance, on reserve land along the MrT line or along drain reserves.

“In some of my own private projects, we are covering up the drains to become bike lanes.”

“The developmen­t of bike lanes is just one part of the picture. a crucial aspect is how we develop the crossings at junctions. one solution is to cantilever a simple overhead steel structure for bikes and pedestrian­s.”

Currently, PJ looks set to use the “gunasama” pavement model (for cyclists and pedestrian­s rather than for motorbikes and bicycles) and maintenanc­e will be crucial. However, many cyclists avoid cycling on pavements as there are unpredicta­ble hazards – potholes, loose paver bricks, “cliffhange­r” kerbs and so on.

even the motorcycle lane along the Federal Highway hit the news in May for having dangerous potholes and loose gravel. Several tunnels also had missing lights and got flooded during rains. In addition, some robbers were throwing nails on the lane to rob motorcycli­sts.

Seksan added, that as the price of petrol is likely to keep going up, we need cheaper and healthier alternativ­es.

“If we could take 20% of cars off the road, that would help reduce traffic congestion a lot. a traffic-jammed city is not a happy city. Cycling will create a happier community.” Would you like to write about your adventures? or want to share some tips on interestin­g outdoor activities, safety, equipment or eco-friendly practices? Please write in to our outdoors coordinato­r, andrew Sia, at star2@ thestar.com.my

 ??  ?? Creative choices: this signboard in Jogjakarta directs bicycles and motorbikes through safer, less busy roads in the city.
Creative choices: this signboard in Jogjakarta directs bicycles and motorbikes through safer, less busy roads in the city.

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