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Cycling lanes at residential communities Image Credit: Supplied: RTA

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is gearing up for the opening of cycle tracks stretching 32 km in Mushrif, Mirdif and Al Khawaneej early next month (February).

The project includes the construction of two bridges for the combined use of cyclists and pedestrians over Al Khawaneej and Academic City Streets.

The project cost amounts to Dh67 million.

AT A GLANCE

Dubai cycle tracks (exising): 218 km 

Locations/areas covered: Seih Assalam, Bab Al Shams, Al Qudra Street, Dubai Water Canal, Jumeirah Street, King Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud Street and Al Mankhool Street

New cycling tracks: 32km (covered 3 areas: Mushrif, Midrif and Al Khawaneej)

Cycling tracks planned: 234km (2018-2021) 

Areas to be covered: Al Warqaa, Jumeirah Beach, Nad Al Sheba, Expo 2020 site, Downtown, Jebel Ali, Al Quoz, Al Karama, Oud Metha, Hor Al Anz, Al Qusais and Al Barsha

Target 2021: 500km of cycle tracks in Dubai.

Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, said: “The construction of cycling and running tracks in the Emirate of Dubai is a manifestation of the directives of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President & Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

“It is also an implementation of the instructions of Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince and Chairman of Dubai Sports Council, to provide suitable options for encouraging residents to practice sports exercises and cycling.

"We aim to provide residential districts with an infrastructure that encourages residents to practice sports as it has immense health benefits to people.

“The project is part of a master plan developed by RTA for providing dedicated cycling and running tracks covering the entire Emirate that can be used as environment-friendly mobility means for cycling enthusiasts. Advanced countries focus on raising the proportion of trips made by walking and cycling,” said Al Tayer.

“The selection of these areas was based on several criteria highlighted by the population density, appeal to cyclists & pedestrians, suitability of locations and the traffic safety level. Moreover, tracks are designed in such a way that ensures the safety and security of cyclists,” explained Al Tayer.