#Author:Er Arun Tamang, Eleotronices Engieering NIT Sikkim India https://nitsikkim.ac.in
Improving walking and cycling networks is a key recommendation of the World Health Organization to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary activity for better health.ii Promoting active transport can also improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions to tackle climate change.iii During a COVID-19 outbreak, these benefits can be amplified. Cycling networks can help essential workers move around a city during rigorous quarantine measures and can also reduce crowding on public transport when movement restrictions are relaxed. From Berlin to Lima, cities around the world have been turning to cycling networks to provide residents with a safe mode of transport during the pandemic.
On 4 May, work commenced on 46 km of emergency cycle lanes and additional cycle parking.vi When deciding on which roads to temporarily reconfigure, Lima prioritised routes which would connect with their existing 227 km cycle network and facilitate access to public services such as hospitals. Across the city, twelve locations were selected to benefit from parking infrastructure, each with the capacity for 20 bicycles. By August, over 13 km of new cycle lanes were open for Lima residents. To optimise cyclist safety, Lima chose to install protected two-way bike lanes. Vertical bollards, rubber humps and painted markings separate the cycle lanes from the roadway, and dedicated traffic lights have been added to intersections. The city is using on-road directional arrows and cycle symbols to further define the new space.vii Through the city government’s website and social media accounts, residents have been informed of cycle network developments. The city government’s Non-motorised Transport Office, Ciclolima, has its own social media accounts and these are the primary channel of distribution for updates and communication campaigns. During the pandemic, Ciclolima has used simple infographics to connect with local people. They have helped to communicate important messages around distancing while cycling and other safe cycle practices, as well as promotional messages of the benefits of cycling and examples of when to travel by bike. Social media has also been used to promote and host live sessions with city practitioners and experts, covering recommendations for parking, and how to stay safe while cycling.
