Letters | Hong Kong should follow Tokyo on path to being bicycle-friendly

Tokyo is also crowded and densely populated, yet it has managed to create a bicycle-friendly environment by following a comprehensive development plan

Future of transport

Letters

Published: 6:15am, 21 Apr 2021

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I write in reference to your editorial “Make Hong Kong more bicycle-friendly” (April 3). While the use of bicycles has increased during the pandemic, Hong Kong unfortunately still falls far short of being a bicycle-friendly city, putting into doubt the commitment of many of these new riders.

The government claims that it can do little more in urban areas. This means that the length of public bicycle tracks and parking facilities are too small and are limited to a few areas in the New Territories.

The purpose of building a bicycle-friendly environment is not only for leisure. More importantly, it is to make bicycles an ideal short-distance, low-carbon transport tool. By connecting people’s first and last journey of the day, bicycles can be used in daily shopping and commuting.

Tokyo is a developed city that represents a model for Hong Kong. Its population and urban density are similar to Hong Kong, yet Tokyo has a more bicycle-friendly environment and is guided by a comprehensive development plan.

Cycling tracks and parking facilities are located throughout the city, as they successfully make cyclists share paths with vehicles and pedestrians. Moreover, to make good use of idle space, bicycle parking spaces are placed near convenience stores, bridges, subway stations and living areas.

03:51

Road test: cycling Hong Kong’s scenic New Territories route after new section completes 60km track

Gone are the days when professionals sought little from global cities beyond work opportunities and entertainment. Hong Kong should speed up and build more cycling facilities throughout the city to attract creative class professionals who seek a green city in which to live.

Chad Lau, Tsing Yi

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