What Needs to Be Done for Bicycle Lanes?

January

What Needs to Be Done for Bicycle Lanes?

In light of the increasing traffic congestion and environmental pollution in urban areas, using non-motorized transport, especially bicycles, can help people improve their health, reduce emissions, and alleviate traffic jams. How can we encourage people in large cities to use bicycles? Our reporter from Giao thông interviewed Mr. Daniel Hermann, Senior Advisor of the “Supporting Vietnam in Implementing the Paris Agreement, Phase II” (VN-SIPA II) project, G-I-Z, on this matter.

Reporter: After living in Hanoi for some time, how do you assess the city’s infrastructure for bicycles?
Mr. Daniel Hermann: In my opinion, Hanoi has relatively little infrastructure specifically designed for bicycles. I understand this is a difficult issue because Hanoi has many narrow lanes with no extra space. However, if we look toward the future and think about how the people of Hanoi want their city to develop in the coming years, I believe promoting cycling will play a very important role.

The current traffic jams and congestion are quite common, and we can see that the development of cars as the primary mode of transport in the city will not be suitable in the future. Therefore, alternative solutions are needed.

Public transport is an important aspect, but other non-motorized forms of transportation, such as cycling and walking, are equally important. Given the increasing air pollution in Hanoi, cycling not only helps reduce air pollution and protect people’s health but also contributes to better traffic planning.

I see that quite a few Vietnamese people still use bicycles. Although the number is not as high as before, it is enough to create a bicycle culture. This needs to be supported and further encouraged.

Reporter: What are the experiences of promoting bicycle use in European countries, Mr. Hermann?

Mr. Daniel Hermann: I think each country in Europe has different experiences. For example, in Germany (my home country), the government decided many years ago to promote and encourage people to cycle. From both an environmental and urban planning perspective, encouraging cycling helps reduce traffic congestion and creates a more livable city.

An important lesson we’ve learned throughout this process is the need for a safe and convenient cycling environment. People will not just be riding their bikes; they also need safe infrastructure that separates them from other traffic.

Along with that, we also need to develop a culture of cycling. This is something that is gradually changing in Germany. 30 years ago, cyclists were often ridiculed. However, today, they are seen as contributing to and benefiting the community, while car drivers are starting to justify why they need to drive into the city.

I think we can take many measures to create this favorable environment, such as providing appropriate infrastructure. Additionally, private companies could consider installing showers in office spaces. This is a successful measure that has been implemented to encourage people to commute to work by bike.

Reporter: Given the current conditions in Vietnam, do you have any recommendations for designing and developing infrastructure for cyclists?

Mr. Daniel Hermann: I think the situation in Vietnam is quite similar to what is happening in Europe, where infrastructure is developed in a car-friendly way. And I think the development needs are also based on the political vision in Vietnam.

If you want to create space for bicycles, you must start by implementing requirements for road development while also considering bicycles as a mode of transportation.

There are many infrastructure projects underway, so I think there are many opportunities to begin developing bicycle transport.

Reporter: Thank you very much, Mr. Hermann!

Source: vov.vn