I WOULD like to highlight the problem and security risk posed by the lack of cycle lanes in the kingdom.
There is an increasing number of labour class workers who rely on cycles for commuting since they can’t afford cars or motorcycles.
The problem is that their cycles are often not properly visible at night and often they can deviate slightly from their track and obstruct fast motorists on the highways.
The time has come to invest in dedicated cycle lanes like we have in Europe for cycles and e-bikes and to ensure they are fitted with adequate rear lights. This will reduce accidents and injuries and make our roads and highways safer.
I believe that the ministries of Transportation and Works has been involved in some trial projects in Hamad Town last year but now there is a clear demand for paths and lanes for cyclists across the whole kingdom.
The land transport sector has to take the initiative to licence some companies to operate a bicycle and e-bike rental service that can offer an advanced, cost effective and efficient service across all regions of the kingdom.
The cycle tracks need to be physically marked and a dedicated lane that is within or adjacent to the roadways where motorised traffic is excluded with some kind of barrier.
This project has been successful in China where slow electric bikes are the norm and needs speed limits in place for the safety of the cyclists and appropriate penalties for the offenders.
We can argue that the kingdom isn’t set up for cycle lanes but I am sure if bids go out to international vendors, a viable solution would be possible.
Let’s make Bahrain safer and accessible to all.
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