As cities grappling with yet-to-be-resolved congestions and traffic concerns rises, so do suggesstions regarding providing free bicycles to tackle this ordeal once and for all. Whether this methodology could actually make a significant impact requires viewing two aspects.
When bicyles are readily available, poeple find them apt solutions for their day-to-day transport-related needs. Instead of feeling frustrated or overwhelmed which is ubiquitious for gridlocks and bumper-to-bumper traffic in major cities, commuters opt for state-owned bikes around the city during rush hours lest they be late for their work. Tehranian officials could exemplify this method, when they introduced an application-based service for citizens who relish free bikes around this metropolis while catering for their travel needs. GPS-oriented bikes, tracks, and stations in Tehran ensure safe passage for travelers, as well as return of free bikes back to this around-the-clock service. This strategy could undoubtedly have significant impact on Tehran’s notorious traffic congestion.
The aforementioned facet notwithstanding, some commentators contend that while this method might partially address the situation at hand, it cannot certainly be a surefire and definite solution; otherwise, we would have not been overwhelmed by traffic and its ensuing pollution in major cities, due to the relatively inexpensive prices involved when purchasing bicycles. Hitherto widely popular, bicycles have become obsolete upon invention of motorized vehicles such as automobiles. Now, they are mainly used for recreational or athletic purposes, which is exactly why they are not pragmatic for daily trips around the town. Either because of their susceptibility to poor weather or simply the inherent excessive ensuing perspiration, or even the physical stamina required, which acts as a discouragement when trying cycling, many people are not favorably disposed towards continous usage of bicycles. For instance, executives and many employees are not very fond of cycling to work, and sitting in critical meetings with creased shirts and embarrassment, which is inevitible with excessive sweating or dyspnea.
The bottom line is that despite numerous health and transport benefits, bicycles are not widely popular due to their inextricable inconvenience. Therfore, it is ill-advised to inundate this sector with millions of dollars, whereas there are far more suitable remedies, such as expanding infrastructure or ameliorating people’s experience in public means of transportation.