Car ban and virus curfew open Tunis streets to cyclists

A cycling campaign called Velorution works to promote bikes in the North African nation and organisers hope the cycle rides will showcase the benefits of bicycles as an ecological, economical and healthy means of transport. Photo: AFP

On the usually traffic-clogged streets of Tunisia's capital, cyclists are pedalling away peacefully on empty boulevards, enjoying a night-time ban on vehicles introduced to help stem coronavirus.

"It's a great feeling," said 25-year-old Oussama Mraidi, sporting a cycling top and helmet. "With the road empty you can drive fast and you feel safe... there are no cars tailgating you".