Doha: Qatar
is seeking to significantly increase the use of bicycles and other
micro-mobility modes as part of efforts to promote sustainable transportation,
reduce traffic congestion, and encourage healthier lifestyles, according to a
senior official from the Ministry of Transport.
Saleh
Saeed Al Marri, Director of the Land Transport Planning Department, revealed
that while 19 percent of respondents in a recent survey owned bicycles, their
actual contribution to the transportation system stood at only 1 percent,
highlighting substantial room for improvement. Speaking to Qatar TV, Al Marri
said the Qatar Bicycle Master Plan was launched in conjunction with World
Bicycle Day on June 3 and is designed to capitalise on the extensive cycling
infrastructure already developed in Qatar.
Al
Marri explained that the plan is built on several key pillars, including
improving access to public transport through first- and last-mile connectivity,
enhancing road safety, reducing traffic accidents, and delivering public health
benefits by encouraging more active modes of travel. "The project carries
multiple benefits. It supports public transport, improves accessibility, raises
traffic safety standards, reduces accident rates, and contributes positively to
public health," he said.
The plan was driven by factors including population growth, urban expansion, and rapid evolution of transport technologies, which have increased the need for alternative transportation solutions. The plan aligns with Qatar's broader sustainable transport objectives and commitment to creating a more integrated, efficient, and environmentally friendly mobility network.
