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On a bicycle made for you
Pic by Akila Jayawardana
Cycling appears to to be a real option as shortages and high prices of fuel are squeezing people dry. But many are wary of the lack of infrastructure and road safety for bikers in Sri Lanka.
Yasas Hewage, Founder of Spinner Cycling, said many are seriously considering the option of turning to the cycle, especially to travel to work.
“Some of us have been cycling for more than ten years. It is possible to ride a to work,” he said, adding that one needs a good bike to do so.
He said bicycles had a maximum speed of 25 to 30 kilometres and one had good control over it. He believed if people adhere to road signals and safety measures one could ride to and from office safely.
However, all governments had failed to create proper infrastructure to promote cycling up to date, he said.
Amal Sooriyage, who was in the bicycle trade, said the cycling culture should be promoted here. However more facilities were needed to do that, he said.
He said there should be bicycle lanes and separate parking space for bicycles near public transportation areas such as railway stations and bus stands.
“This would allow people to get to their offices or homes after they get off from public transport,” he added.
Meanwhile Cycling Federation President Dr Amal Harsha de Silva said using the cycle as a mode of transport would make Sri Lanka a healthier nation.
Cycling helps people to combat non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, cholesterol and heart ailments.
“One in four people is diabetic. If we cycle more, diabetes would be out of the window and many cardiovascular diseases can be reduced,” he said.
Traffic and Road Safety Deputy Inspector General Indika Hapugoda said the Police, together with the Road Development Authority, should work together to set up proper cycling paths.
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