Sg tries to friendlier to the blind. The curbs leading to the
pavements are now flattened and replaced with dimpled tiles. This
is well and good. Certainly, we can do more for those more in
need.
However, this leads to not so good side effects.
Cyclists find it much easier to cycle on the pavements. They are
now king of the pavements instead of pedestrains. I am quite OK
with sharing the pavements with cyclists, but cyclists need to be
educated that pedestrains are priority number ONE, not them. They
need to slow down. A speeding 50 kg person on a bicycle can do lots
of damage.
What is worse is that motorcyclists are also finding their way
onto the pavements. If you don't believe me, just go to any HDB
estate. You'll see many motor bikes parked on the pavements. How do
they get up there? They use the pavements for parking or as
shortcuts to their destinations.
This morning, while walking on the pavement, two motorbikes with
pillion passengers, passed by me on the pavement. Though, they were
going slowly, it does not mean that accidents cannot happen.
Unaware pedestrains, like playful children can run into them. Major
damages can result from these relatively heavy vehicles.
We have all kinds of pedestrains. From the old with walking
aids, to the young in prams, to the more challenged in life.
Pedestrains need to be protected.
My stand is that motorised vehicles must be banned from
pavements, and that include those motorised bicyles. Traffic police
and HDB wardens should just booked any motorised vehicles found
parked on pavements. There is no excuse to be on the pavements.
Pedestrains should be allowed to enjoy their walk in peace.