MANILA, Philippines - The Bike 02 project of the LRTA which was inaugurated on Nov. 8, 2009 is a great idea for cyclists. LRT Lines 1 and 2 allow bikers with folding bikes to bring their units into trains. This idea started in some developed countries. It shortens the travel time of cyclists and reduces the incidence of accidents involving them on city streets.
I suggest that 2 to 2 1/2 meters of cycling lanes be added to the left and right sides of existing elevated rail systems. Since the bikes are light compared to motor vehicles, there will be no need to install columns from the street level. Beams jutting from the horizontal supports of existing rail beds can be added to support the bike lanes. Diagonal braces from the center columns can add support to the bike lanes. Structural engineers can determine whether or not motorcycles and scooters can be accommodated in the weight load so that these 2-wheel vehicles can, likewise, travel on the elevated wings of existing rail systems. This will considerably minimize traffic on street level and reduce the incidence of traffic accidents involving 2-wheeled vehicles. Travel will be one-way for each elevated lane. Ramps along selected points can be constructed to allow bikers to ascend and descent from the elevated lanes. Future construction of elevated rail systems should include this feature. This idea will allow all bikers, not only those with folding bikes, to travel through the entire length of the elevated light rail system. It will also cut travel time for bikers and greatly minimize street-level traffic congestion and accidents. – APOLONIO G. RAMOS, Marikina City