B2W Indonesia pushes bicycles as transport to cut emissions

The Bike to Work (B2W) Indonesia community has reiterated that bicycles are not merely tools for sport or recreation, but an environmentally friendly mode of transport to reduce carbon emissions and restore the capital’s air quality.

“B2W Indonesia invites all levels of society to start prioritising bicycles in daily activities and together reclaim the right to clean air in Jakarta’s skies,” asserted B2W Indonesia Chairman Hendro Subroto in Jakarta on Friday.

To that end, B2W Indonesia, together with the Committee for the Phase-out of Leaded Petrol (KPBB) and the Pedestrians Coalition, is urging the government to maintain, expand and integrate protected bicycle lanes.

According to B2W Indonesia, bicycle lanes must not be merely for show, but must be safely connected between residential areas, business districts and transit stations, and provide a sense of safety and comfort when travelling.

They also asked the government to provide supporting facilities in public spaces and offices. For example, providing secure bicycle parking as well as shower facilities in office buildings, stations, public transport stops and shopping centres.

Lastly, they also asked the government to clear bicycle lanes through strict law enforcement. For example, by taking firm action against violations involving motor vehicles encroaching on bicycle lanes to guarantee the safety of cyclists.

Meanwhile, Pedestrians Coalition activist Amalia S Bendang, who is also with the Indonesia Council for Clean Mobility Coalition South East Asia (CMC SEA), said urban transport modes for citizens’ journeys must be proportional, prioritising walking, cycling and mass public transport.

In this way, Amalia said, citizens have humane and equitable mobility choices.