Ministry plans to make cycling safer in KL and Putrajaya

Putrajaya may become cyclists’ city of choice if the FT Ministry’s plan to turn under-utilised motorcycle lanes into bicycle lanes materialises.

PUTRAJAYA may become the city of choice for cyclists if the Federal Territories Ministry’s plan to convert under-utilised motorcycle lanes into bicycle lanes materialises.

On Oct 29 last year, Minister Tan Sri Annuar Musa said a study was being done to convert lanes that had been gazetted for motorcycle use only.

The plan came about after observations that motorcycle lanes were underutilised, Annuar said.

“We are also looking into providing other facilities such as pit stops and car parking bays for cyclists.

“We will also consult cycling associations in the country for their input on safety aspects and what other facilities can be provided.

“It is hoped that this will encourage families to cycle and spend time doing healthy activities, ”he was reported to have said.

A similar plan is afoot in Kuala Lumpur and the ministry is in the process of identifying suitable locations to complement existing bicycle lanes.

The plan came amid a police reminder that action would be taken against those who fail to abide by safety measures, such as equipping their bicycles with functioning safety lights, brakes and a bell.

This follows the death of a 34-year-old woman cyclist who was hit by a lorry on Dec 19 in Putrajaya.

In a Bernama report on Jan 2, Putrajaya OCPD Asst Comm Mohd Fadzil Ali said offenders would be hauled to court and could face fines of up to RM2,000.

He said enforcement was needed to ensure safety among road users as there was an increase in cyclists in the administrative capital.

“Cyclists who break the law face punishment under the Road Transport Act 1987 and Road Traffic Rules 1959, ” he said, referring to reckless riding and failing to abide by traffic signage.

Six accidents involving bicycles were recorded in 2019 and 11 in 2020.

ACP Mohd Fadzil reminded cyclists to ensure that they were always visible to other road users for their safety.

“Cycling activities at a suitable time and place are also crucial in reducing road accidents, ” he said.