Cyclists, here’s some good news. Although it’s been encouraged as the recommended form of transport amid the pandemic, riding a bike hasn’t been the safest way to get around Metro Manila.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is taking steps to ensure better ways to bike around the capital. In a forum led by DOTr secretary Arthur Tugade, the agency announced that it has secured P1.3 billion in funds to construct a bike lane network as part of its pandemic recovery plan.
The DOTr has secured the P1.3-billion funding for the installation of a bike lane network in Metro Manila, Cebu and Davao as part of its pandemic recovery plan. https://t.co/hHbiwMp3qx
— Inquirer (@inquirerdotnet) November 5, 2020
Aside from Metro Manila, the DOTr is also targeting Cebu and Davao for the installation of bike lane networks and will partner with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) for the project.
The project’s first order of business is to set up painted bike lanes to give cyclists a dedicated area to bike safely. Phase two includes the installation of bike barriers and elevated bike lanes in selected areas. Although the routes have yet to be announced, this is still great news because cycling has become a more popular means of transportation since the pandemic hit. Aside from the fact that you’re not sharing close quarters with anyone, it’s also a great workout.
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Previously, bike lanes were installed in cities like Pasig, San Juan and Marikina in a bid to ease transport woes brought about by traffic congestion and the implementation of enhanced community quarantine (ECQ).
Pasig and San Juan also nabbed the gold medal in the first ever Mobility Awards, which recognizes bike-friendly local governments, establishments and institutions.
We hope to see the government take more concrete steps to make the entire Metro Manila (and maybe even the country) a more bikeable place.
Header image courtesy of Jan Belmonte for the Inquirer
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