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How Johannesburg Is Turning Into A Cycle-Friendly City

How Johannesburg Is Turning Into A Cycle-Friendly City

South Africa’s capital city is on its way to becoming a cycle-friendly city after the local authorities built cyclist only lanes to encourage people to ditch their cars for bicycles and reduce traffic congestion in the city.

Johannesburg commuters are now able to bike their way from Sandton to Alexandra, from Orlando to Noordgesig and from Rosebank to Sandton, thanks to the designated green lanes.

“I find it too enjoyable,” said Mehita Idani, a cyclist in Johannesburg. ” I don’t have to stress over parking. I’m absolutely thrilled that there are these green protected cycle lanes emerging and I encourage others to use them as well”

Apart from the associated health benefits for cycling, these lanes will also benefit low-income earners and university students, while reducing greenhouse gases emission caused by cars.

To improve on safety, local authorities said, lighting has been improved along these lanes and importantly, CCTV cameras have been installed along them to improve safety, not only for the cyclists, but for pedestrians, residents and vehicles along these routes.

South Africa has one of the highest crime rate in the world, with the latest police data showing 32.2 murders per 100,000 people, close to eight times the US rate.