Lanzhou expands bike lanes to create a safer cycling environment

　　Three years ago, the Lanzhou municipal government issued a green travel initiative, encouraging citizens to ride bicycles and walk more. Earlier this year during the Lanzhou Municipal “Two Sessions,” several CPPCC members also called for alleviating traffic congestion by developing the city’s bicycle transportation system. On the topic of cycling, the general public believes that as long as dedicated bike lanes are provided, more bike parking spots are built, and fees are set reasonably, an increasing number of citizens will be encouraged to join the “cycling army.” Experts, meanwhile, say ensuring cyclists’ right to road space is a prerequisite for green travel. This year, Lanzhou has made some plans in this regard, with hopes of realizing them soon.

　　Mr. Chen, a resident of Yantan who has driven to work for the past two years, recently switched to cycling. He told reporters that while driving was initially chosen for convenience and speed, congested roads now make driving time-consuming—and cycling is much better for health. In his view, if Lanzhou can establish dedicated bike lanes and build enough parking spots with reasonable charges, many people would opt for this eco-friendly mode of transport. Ms. Yang, another resident, also believes that for commuters, cycling not only provides exercise but also broadens one’s perspective, relaxes the mind, reduces pollution, and achieves multiple benefits.

　　Mr. Gao Yunxiang, a member of the Lanzhou Committee of the China Democratic League, submitted a proposal during the city’s “Two Sessions” earlier this year aimed at building a bicycle transportation system to tackle congestion. He argues that the functions of bicycles and motor vehicles cannot be replaced. It is undeniable that bicycles are the most energy-efficient, zero-emission, and zero-energy-consumption means of transport, capable of significantly reducing urban noise, pollution, and traffic jams. Therefore, promoting this healthy and green mode of transportation across society is urgent. Gao Yunxiang said that urban road construction should prioritize pedestrian and bicycle travel. When constructing or expanding major and secondary urban roads, pedestrian paths and bike lanes should be included. In principle, bike lanes should avoid being integrated with pedestrian paths and should be kept distinct. Additionally, efforts should be accelerated to build more bicycle parking facilities, with residential areas and public spaces providing sufficient parking space and convenient facilities for bicycles.

　　Faced with the ongoing competition between bicycles and motor vehicles for road space, staff from the Lanzhou Transportation Bureau stated that, in the long term, the fundamental solution to preventing bike lane encroachment and improving the cycling environment lies in accelerating infrastructure construction to thoroughly resolve the shortage of road resources. However, from a practical standpoint, based on current conditions, the existing road network should be reasonably planned and modified to comprehensively and appropriately allocate existing road resources, maximizing improvements to the travel environment for all road users, including motor vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians. Currently, Lanzhou has already begun work in this area. A dedicated east-west bike lane will be constructed from Xijin Road to Panxuan Road, which will significantly improve the current situation where bicycles have no proper space to travel.