Story and pix by Chan Lilian
FOR it is said that “the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step”.
While Penang invests in the infrastructure to make it a bicycling state, a small group of passionate cyclists have begun that important first step by forming the Bike On Friday (BOF) group to cycle to work on Fridays.
Against the picturesque sunrise at Karpal Singh Drive, a group of working folk have gathered for a cuppa at 7am before riding to their respective working places. Some drove their cars and parked, while others who live nearby ride to an outlet at Karpal Singh Drive.
“This is the second week we are doing this. Imagine if each person rides to work, this equals one less car on the road and hence reduces traffic congestion in the city,” Yew Tung Seang, an architect in the city, told Buletin Mutiara.
Yew has been instrumental in getting the Penang Bicycle Route which is a 12.5km dedicated bicycle lane from Queensbay Mall roundabout, through the coastal route to George Town project moving.
“The idea to get a dedicated bicycling lane was mooted because many cyclists urged the state government to provide a safer cycling route. Parking facilities are available at Queensbay while facilities like shower rooms and others will be made available in George Town for cyclists in the future,” Yew said.
Joining the BOF group on March 27 were Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Mohd. Rashid Hasnon, Sungai Pinang assemblymember Lim Siew Khim and other cycling enthusiasts.
Those who cycle from Karpal Singh Drive to Komtar park their bicycles at GAMA Supermarket.
GAMA is building a RM20million, 10-storey car park cum bicycle hub next to its store in Jalan Datuk Keramat.
The bicycle hub will promote and encourage cycling activities in Penang.
A proper secured building with bicycle bays will encourage more people to cycle to George Town to work.