Laos' new transport scheme set to reduce air and noise pollution

VEINTIANE (Vientiane Times/ANN): The Laos-Vientiane Sustainable Urban Transport Project features a non-motorised component that is designed to help lower air and noise pollution levels in the capital.

Being initiated by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport’s Department of Transport, the project will create a non-motorised core area in the city centre.

E-pedicabs are among the new introductions that will help commuters get from Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) stations to their destination in town without the need for motorised vehicles.

The e-pedicab is a lightweight, electronically-assisted pedal vehicle that has gained popularity in many cities around the world for its ability to transport multiple passengers while also being environmentally friendly.

Managed by the Urban Transport Management Section (UTMS), e-pedicabs will move passengers faster and more affordably within the core area because they will operate even in non-motorised areas such as the new Transit Mall.

E-pedicabs will run from 6am to 10pm daily and can be found at all BRT stations and parking areas. Affordably priced at 12,500 kip per kilometre, payment and bookings can be made through the UTMS smartphone app.

The e-pedicab is one of the main components of the Vientiane Sustainable Urban Transport Project’s commitment to create efficient but affordable mobility within Vientiane that will help ease traffic congestion and improve the quality of life for those who live and/or work in the core area by reducing air and noise pollution. - Vientiane Times/ANN