Many cities are replacing cars with bicycles. What are the reasons for this? Which do you think is better?
Nowadays, several urban locales have started opting for cycles and proscribing use of cars. This can be attributed to several causes, but when it comes deciding which of the two modes is superior is a fiercely debated issue.
The reasons behind this paradigm includes cars becoming a major source of traffic jams and snarls, and accidents. Similarly, they are a prominent source of air pollution, leading to more environmental issues. Additionally, these are encroaching pedestrian space in shopping districts, roads and residential areas, causing chaos, making neighborhoods don an ugly look, and fueling safety concerns among pedestrians. To corroborate this, a survey revealed that 40% of pedestrian space in Toronto is occupied by the four wheelers, resulting in four to five accidents every fortnight.
Although cars are known to offer comfortable rides and protection from extreme weather, apart from allowing families to travel together, pedaling is incomparable when it comes to reducing the cost of creating and maintaining infrastructure; these humble two-wheelers do not stipulate an elaborate road infrastructure: less space is needed for riding and parking.
Moreover, it is the cleanest mode of commuting as it does not produce any emissions, helping alleviate greenhouse gas discharge, and thus, air pollution. Likewise, it also promotes physical activity, leading to better health outcomes, and ultimately, resulting in healthcare cost reduction. To exemplify, the city of Guelph encouraged the use of cycles by providing it for free for forty hours per week to the residents, and this initiative recorded a 40% downfall in issues related to cardio and joints.
In hindsight, it can be concluded that cities are more cautious about environment and health. Hence, preferring and promoting the use of bicycles is justified since this 19th century invention can ensure a clean environment, and well being.