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Cycling in Singapore : a case study of Pasir Ris New Town
Author
Tan, Elizabeth Ewe Khim
Supervisor
Wong, Tai-Chee
Abstract
The bicycle has proven itself to be a good form of alternative transport to cars, for short distance commuting. In the modern congested city and housing estates of Singapore, as well as other major cities of the world, there is an urgent need to redress the problems. For example, in Singapore, traffic congestion is no longer confined to just the aural business district (CBD). Today, traffic congestion is even experienced m the heart of Housing Development Board's (HDB) residential estates. This is mainly attributed to the large increase m number of car trips, even for short distance travel within the residential estate.
The increase in car trips, if not addressed will have a negative impact on the economy of a country. Economists estimated that a 10-minute traffic jam in Singapore will cost the country $3 million a day, or will set back the Republic by $1.75 billion annually (Straits Ties, 911 1/94). All these issues make it even more urgent to look into alternative modes of transportation in Singapore.
This study examined the potential of promoting bicycles in Singapore, for short distance travel within housing estates. To ascertain the feasibility of promoting cycling, the behavioural patterns and profiles of current cyclists and non-cyclists were studied through face to face interviews in Pasir Ris. Through the study, it was found that there is great potential in promoting cycling, especially recreational cycling and the extension of the current park and ride scheme for cars to bicycles.
AU these, however, are subjected to safe and more effective cycling facilities and policies. Only then will more people be willing to take up cycling more regularly.
Facilities such as segregated cycling paths, better parking facilities and supporting infrastructure as well as effective cycling guidelines, policies and education were found to be a necessity. Such infrastructure and policies must also continually be monitored, examined and evaluated for their effectiveness.
The increase in car trips, if not addressed will have a negative impact on the economy of a country. Economists estimated that a 10-minute traffic jam in Singapore will cost the country $3 million a day, or will set back the Republic by $1.75 billion annually (Straits Ties, 911 1/94). All these issues make it even more urgent to look into alternative modes of transportation in Singapore.
This study examined the potential of promoting bicycles in Singapore, for short distance travel within housing estates. To ascertain the feasibility of promoting cycling, the behavioural patterns and profiles of current cyclists and non-cyclists were studied through face to face interviews in Pasir Ris. Through the study, it was found that there is great potential in promoting cycling, especially recreational cycling and the extension of the current park and ride scheme for cars to bicycles.
AU these, however, are subjected to safe and more effective cycling facilities and policies. Only then will more people be willing to take up cycling more regularly.
Facilities such as segregated cycling paths, better parking facilities and supporting infrastructure as well as effective cycling guidelines, policies and education were found to be a necessity. Such infrastructure and policies must also continually be monitored, examined and evaluated for their effectiveness.
Date Issued
1996
Call Number
TE301 Tan
Date Submitted
1996