KUALA LUMPUR: While plans to revive bicycle lanes in the city are generating renewed interest among city folk in promoting the eco-friendly way to travel, many cyclists feel that a lot more could be done to improve them in terms of safety and connectivity.
Freelance TV producer and cyclist Azry Aziz, 42, said while the efforts were laudable, the authorities needed to look into ways to improve the safety features, especially in lanes next to roads.
“The move (to build more bicycle lanes) is timely. However, there is a lack of safety features as the lanes are not properly barricaded. Cyclists are exposed to danger as some drivers encroach on the lane, and some think that the lanes are for motorcyclists.
“There were many instances where I was forced to swerve to avoid cars parked on the lane, especially in Jalan P. Ramlee and Jalan Ampang near the Pelita restaurant and KLCC.
“I had no choice but to cycle on the road alongside motorists,” he said, adding that lanes in some areas were placed on pedestrian walkways.
He said the authorities should beef up enforcement to prevent the lanes from being abused by motorists.
“Maybe City Hall could look at how European cities implement the cycling lanes, where barricades are erected to separate the lanes from the road.
“There is also a need to improve awareness among cyclists and motorists. There wouldn’t be much of a problem if everyone followed the law and be courteous on the road.
“I almost crashed into a car once as the driver didn’t use his blinker when turning into a corner.
“The authorities should also look into connectivity by improving the public transport system,” he said.
Retiree Sin Tai Lim, 61, said having designated bicycle lanes in the city was a good start as it meant that the authorities recognised the need for such a facility.
“Even though there are not many cyclists in the city, it is hoped that with the dedicated lanes, more people will be interested to take up the activity.
“Bicycle lanes, in addition to programmes such as the car-free day, as well as public interest in bicycles, are a good sign that we are moving in the right direction.
“Maybe we can do better in terms of educating people on road safety, especially among school-children, and in terms of law enforcement on errant drivers.
“We can see cars and taxis parked by the roadside, blocking cyclists from using the lanes,” said Sin, who works part-time as a cycling tour guide.
M. Kirupanathan, 20, said cycling in Kuala Lumpur was challenging due to the lack of safe routes.
“I found that there aren’t many safe routes for us to use, making it difficult for us to get to places,” he said.
“Sometimes I have to cycle on the highway if I’m travelling to Kuala Lumpur from Petaling Jaya and I would occasionally use the motorcycle lane.
“Cycling on the motorcycle lane, especially at night, is dangerous too, because motorcyclists can’t see us even if we have reflective lights on.
“I wouldn’t mind cycling to work if it is not too far away and if I’m not working long hours at the office. It would be a good start to the day and we are doing something good for the environment.”