LTA consulting stakeholders to establish rules for shared paths

We thank readers for their views on improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

With more people using bicycles and other personal mobility devices as a convenient and environmentally friendly mode of transport, there has been a growing discussion about how we can improve the safety of all road users. The Land Transport Authority has built and will continue to build dedicated cycle paths, where possible, to provide pedestrians and cyclists with their own spaces. This is the safest approach.

As pointed out by many, however, it is not practical or possible to build dedicated cycle paths everywhere, and there is a need to consider how different users can be encouraged to use paths safely and harmoniously.

To do so, the Active Mobility Advisory Panel was established in July to propose a set of norms for the safe and harmonious use of paths. The panel comprises representatives from key groups such as seniors, youths, cyclists and personal mobility device users to reflect a wide range of views.

A public consultation exercise has been launched to gather views, and the panel will review the concerns and suggestions received in its deliberations. The exercise will conclude by year end, and a set of rules and code of conduct for the safe use of paths will be proposed by early next year.

We will step up our education and enforcement efforts to ensure the public understands the rules well and practises the code of conduct.

We encourage everyone — pedestrians, cyclists and motorists — to do their part in keeping paths safe through simple behaviour such as slowing down in crowded areas and at crossings, giving way to more vulnerable users and maintaining awareness of the surroundings. By showing greater consideration for others, we can create a harmonious, safe environment for everyone.