Bike sharing have taken many countries by storm. China is the main consumer for the bike sharing market. Here in Singapore also, bike sharing have become a common method of transport recently.
We have 3 main players here namely Obike, Mobike and Ofo. Few other small players also exists.
What is Bike Sharing?
Bike sharing is a service where in bicycles are available for shared use to people, either by paying a deposit and pay for each ride or buy pass and ride unlimited for a specific period. Bike sharing is a really a good concept and something which can help the people to burn some calories. It is also good for the environment.
But let’s have a closer look. Has bike sharing really been that much of a blessing? I am writing from a Singapore perspective about this in the blog
The Problems
When I came to Singapore back in 2009, there was no bike sharing then. Singapore footpaths and sideways were all clean and tidy. But now, you can see these bicycles parked all over the place in an inconsiderate way. It is really a mess. In some places, you cannot even walk properly in footpaths, without hitting these bikes.
Footpaths are no longer safe now. These bikes, together with other PMO devices (which is a bigger menace ), have put the life of people, especially kids, in danger. One have to be really watchful when walking in footpaths now.
Another problem I see is the lack of civic sense among the people who use these shared bikes. Since the riders don’t own these bikes, they are least bothered about it’s safe keeping. Many are seeing it like use and throw stuff. You can find many spoilt bikes all around and the sad thing is that even the ride sharing company’s are not repairing or moving them out.
A big problem that I have been facing recently is that if you are searching for a bike, these days you should be lucky enough to get one. It’s not because these bikes are all used up. Many of these bikes don’t have seats. It looks like a pattern, either people are taking them so that no one will use it or someone is stealing them. You can find many bikes, especially OFO without seats all over.
The Solution
The above are some problems that I personally experienced or felt. Bike sharing is definitely a good travel option. But authorities here have to be a bit more strict on the operations of this. Right now, the bike sharing companies are held responsible to the problems being caused by these bikes. Share it with the riders also. Once an issue is reported, the last used rider of that bike should also be made responsible for the issue caused to the bike. Then only people will be more careful.
Allow designated parking lots for bike sharing in all buildings, hdb, condos etc, which can be easily seen and accessible. This will ensure that the riders can park the bikes in the designated areas. Reward people who park correctly.
Take away the free rides. Give it once in a while. Obike is a good example for this. People will becomes more responsible and will keep the bikes in good condition then.
These are some suggestions from my side. Let’s play our part in making this bike sharing a good and enjoyable experience for all.
itsthrill 