Cycle and bike tracks are quite common in developed countries; however, the idea has not been implemented in countries like Pakistan, but it seems to be changing for the citizens of Lahore. According to media reports and Lahore City Traffic Police, the provincial government has approved designated cycle and bike lanes in the city.
The announcement came after Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz ordered special lanes in China’s pattern. “In Beijing, there are two lanes for bike riders and scooters, entirely separated from main expressways by wide sidewalks,” the CM reportedly said.
According to an official, the chief minister was of the view that head injuries to bikers were the leading factor behind deaths and life-long disabilities. She said that since bikes are a major mode of transportation, riders has to be provided safe roads.
Roads to Get Bike Tracks
Lahore Development Authority (LDA) Engineering Wing has started preparing a feasibility report and design of the project. “Initially, the project will be implemented on three major roads of the city,” the reports stated, adding that dedicated lanes will be prepared from Kalma Chowk to Siddique Trade Center (both sides), Canal Road to Lahore Bridge on Ferozepur Road, while the authority is specifying the third road.
Moreover, the tracks will be reportedly prepared as per modern standards, with special road signs and specific carpeting while keeping the traffic flow in mind.
In the last couple of months, the traffic police have put traffic cones on different roads, including Main Boulevard, Jail Road, and Ferozepur Road, specifying cycle and bike lanes. Reportedly, the decision was taken to educate the commuters about these lanes. The specific lanes for two-wheelers are made to avoid slow traffic and accidents, as the separate lanes are safer for bikers. And these lanes are more critical in countries like Pakistan, where traffic rules and regulations are largely not followed by the drivers, mainly because of a lack of awareness.
What do you think about the separate bike lanes in Lahore? Do you think it would succeed? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments section.
