Govt. in major push to introduce non-motorised transport

• To introduce dedicated bicycle and pedestrian lanes on existing and future roads 
• Stresses move is not a temporary fix for ongoing energy crisis due to lack of foreign currency 

In an attempt to promote non-motorised transport in the country, the Cabinet of Ministers has agreed to make way for bicycle lanes on the existing road network, with steps to include dedicated bicycle and pedestrian lanes in future roads.
In line with the government’s ambition to reach carbon neutrality in 2050, Environment Minister Mahinda Amaraweera proposed a range of measures to promote non-motorised transport in the country.
The Cabinet of Ministers on Monday agreed to several proposals, including making way for bicycle lanes on suitable existing roads and upgrading the existing pedestrian lanes.  

The government also hopes to include bicycle and pedestrian lanes for future roads, taking the necessary measures to encourage the use of bicycles for the staff of government offices and providing the necessary facilities for cyclists, including parking and access. 
“These are not mere proposals. I will make sure these proposals come into action,” Amaraweera  averred. 
He stressed that these proposals, which had been on the making for months, are not being introduced as a temporary fix for the on-going energy crisis in the country.
Further, Amaraweera noted that the public sector employees, who choose bicycles as their preferred transport method, would be given incentives, benefits and recognition. 
“We are currently drafting a scheme for public sector employees. The Environment Ministry is ready to fill any gaps in funds in other ministries and public institutions when implementing such schemes,” he went on to say.
He noted that some of the heads of public institutions are already using bicycles, setting an example for their employees. 
Sri Lanka’s active vehicle population has grown more than three times since 2020 to over five million at present.
“This is due to the increase in the import of private vehicles such as cars, motorcycles and three-wheelers. Also, there is a tendency to use private vehicles, due to the rising income levels and difficulties in using the existing public transport services,”  the Government Information Department said.