Cabinet nod to integrate non-motorised transport to existing system 

The Cabinet of Ministers approved several measures to be taken to integrate non-motorised modes of commuting within the existing transport system. 

These include; making of bicycle lanes suitable for existing roads and upgrading of pedestrian lanes, to include bicycle and pedestrian lanes for future roads, take necessary measures to encourage the use of bicycles for the staff of Government offices and to provide necessary facilities for office cyclists including parking and access. “Non-motorised transport is a highly cost-effective transportation strategy. It brings about large health, economic and social benefits,” Environment Minister Mahinda Amaraweera said on Tuesday, joining the post-Cabinet meeting media briefing.

At present, the number of active vehicles in the country is over five million, which is three folds than in 2000. 

This is due to the increase in the import of private vehicles such as cars, motorcycles, and three-wheelers. 

Also, there is a tendency to use private vehicles due to rising income levels and difficulties in using existing public transport services. 

Pointing out that the successfulness depends on many factors such as climate, geography, culture, political commitment, public awareness, policy effort and consistency, long-term vision and the attractiveness of the alternatives, Amaraweera said policy makers must lead by example in the future.

“I hope politicians could opt to use bicycles at least once or twice a week, as the country returns to normalcy,” he said, adding that many public sector officials report to work on bicycles.