The Cabinet has approved measures to be taken for the integration of non-motorized transport within the existing transport system in Sri Lanka.
The Government said the current number of active vehicles in the country is over 5 million, three times more 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.
The rapid growth in private car use has led to a decline in the contribution of non-motorized modes of transport. The use of non-motorized transport has a positive effect on reducing air pollution as well as on health, air quality, environment, climate change, and personal finances, it said.
Therefore, it has been identified that non-motor systems should be integrated with the existing transport systems to maximize economic and environmental benefits.
Accordingly, taking into consideration the proposal made by the Minister of Environment, the relevant Ministries and Institutions have agreed to take the following steps under a joint approach.
- Marking of bicycle lanes suitable for existing roads and upgrading of existing pedestrian lanes
- Steps to include bicycle and pedestrian lanes for future roads
- Taking necessary measures to encourage the use of bicycles for the staff of government offices
- Providing necessary facilities for office cyclists including parking and access. (NewsWire)