Observer proposes cycle lanes be built higher than road surface

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Djoko Setijowarno, an observer from the Indonesian Transportation Society (MTI), has proposed that cycle lanes be positioned higher than the road surface to reduce the potential for encroachment by other vehicles. “The implementation of raised bike lanes can be an effective physical solution. By placing the cycle lane slightly higher than the road surface or integrating it with a wide pavement (shared path), the potential for encroachment by motorcyclists can be significantly prevented,” Djoko said in Jakarta on Saturday. Djoko noted that trees could also be planted to provide shade for cyclists. In addition to providing road infrastructure, supporting facilities and developing a cycling culture are also very important. According to him, office building and shopping centre managers need to be encouraged to provide adequate dedicated bicycle parking, complete with lockers and shower facilities. Furthermore, providing bike-to-work incentives by government and private institutions can motivate workers to switch to bicycles as a daily mode of transport. Djoko added that supervision and law enforcement need to be improved through a combination of technology and the deployment of personnel on the ground. “One way is to install special ETLE cameras at vulnerable points to take firm action against motorcyclists or car drivers who encroach on and park in cycle lanes,” Djoko said. Moreover, Djoko continued, preparing Transportation Agency personnel to carry out routine sterilisation patrols during peak commuter hours (06.00–09.00 WIB and 16.00–19.00 WIB) is very important to keep the lanes safe and smooth.