However, the following scenes are far from satisfactory, pedestrians are seen walking >3 abreast, stopping the middle of the path in hand phone conversation, cyclist swerving around; passing sometimes left, sometimes right, narrowly avoiding a collision.
In any case, the effort of the Tampines GRC led by Mr Mah Bow Tan is a commendable one. As Singapore develops to be a cosmopolitan city, greater numbers and races of people living together is expected and integration in all areas a must. Cycling is also a clean and healthy way of getting around.
With widened foot paths being developed, I believe that the next solution begins with the pedestrian. If pedestrians fail to keep left, then cyclist obviously cannot cycle straight. Only with certainty that pedestrians would keep left and walk straight can cyclist be taught to overtake on the right. The proper procedure for overtaking is currently unpracticed; remains ad-hoc- an oft unpredictable and harrowing experience for both.
For progress to be sustained, we must adopt better levels of consensus and coordination.
For a start, my suggestion to Mr Mah (and co.) would be for them to vigorously enforce the 'keep left' message. For instance, during consistency walkathons, cyclotrons, those participating should be advised during the minister's speech to be gracious, keep left and let faster traffic pass on the right. Opposite traveling non-participants should be allowed safe passage to the right (and not trampled upon).
Children in school should be trained likewise to adopt such social graces early in life. All schools should adopt the walk on left policy.
Then only will harmony return to our roads and vibrancy to the city.
'The audacity of hope'.
Majullah Singapura.
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References:
Cycling the green and healthy option - so let's make it safe (Dec 23, 2009), http://www.straitstimes.com/STForum/OnlineStory/STIStory_469545.html
LTA material for pedestrians has nothing about 'keeping left': http://www.onemotoring.com.sg/publish/onemotoring/en/on_the_roads/educational_materials.MainPar.15077.File.tmp/BARP_English.pdf
ST 16Dec2009- Man hit by teen cyclist, died- http://forums.asiaone.com/showthread.php?p=351084#post351084
Have pity on cyclists lah, foot path give way to pedestrian, on road, give way and smell bus fumes. Sandwich class, very difficult U know, Singapore isn't an inclusive society. See paragraph 3a: http://just-my-observation.blogspot.com/2009/12/give-way-to-buses-scheme-is-dangerous.html