Why plan to have Hong Kong cyclists riding on flyovers warrants a rethink

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A woman cycles on a pier in Western District as Tropical Storm Ewiniar approaches Hong Kong, on June 7. Photo: Dickson Lee

Published: 1:01pm, 3 Oct 2018Updated: 1:01pm, 3 Oct 2018

I am writing in response to “Kwun Tong leads way in lifting ban on bikes”(September 26).

The Transport Department decided to allow cyclists to ride on 16 bridges and underpasses across the city in 2017. And now Choi Ha Road flyover in Kwun Tong is set to be the first flyover open to cyclists. However, I believe lifting the biking ban may compromise the safety of not just cyclists, but drivers as well.

Last year, there were 1,917 accidents involving bicycles, with 1,976 people injured and 10 deaths. Although the move to lift the biking ban is intended at improving the accessibility of bicycles and making cycling more convenient, the risk of injury to cyclists remains.

Moreover, conflicts between cyclists and vehicle drivers may increase, as they jostle for road space on the busy flyovers. Any collision or road rage incident may see arguments escalate into demands for compensation. This would also affect the police and other road users. While the police resolve these conflicts, the vehicles involved may block the road, causing traffic jams.

Is it really necessary to lift the biking ban on flyovers and underpasses? Should cyclists wear high visibility vests to protect themselves? Hopefully, the Transport Department will listen to the suggestions of the public and improve this policy.

Ada Yeung, Po lam

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