Dubai: Cycling enthusiasts are urging the authorities to clarify whether they are allowed to ride at Nad Al Sheba.
A ban on cycling in the area was enforced in December last year by the Dubai Police and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) to ensure the safety of cyclists and in response to constant traffic violations by some riders.
'No cycling' signs were recently taken down at Nad Al Sheba and many cyclists presumed they were allowed to ride there again. The RTA, however, says the situation remains unchanged.
RTA marketing and corporate communications director, Peyman Younes Parham, said: "The RTA's position on Nad Al Sheba is still the same; it is still unsafe for people to cycle there. There is a lot of construction going on in the area and you don't know what dangers could pop up; we are trying to keep people safe and alive.
"It is also a question of habits and following the rules of the road. Some motorists don't understand all the rules of the road with regard to cyclists and vice-versa.
Wolfgang Hohmann, General Manager of Wolfi's Bike Shop on Shaikh Zayed Road, told Gulf News that Nad Al Sheba is one of the best cycling spots in the city.
Your comments
In my opinion, cylcists should not be banned in Nad Al Sheba as they have mentioned that it is one of the most beautiful spots for cylcists. What the RTA should do is to create a separate road for cylcists so as to avoid accidents. In China, they have a separate road for cyclists even in busy streets, so why not do it in Dubai?
Roberto Roy
Dubai,UAE
Posted: February 04, 2009, 16:13
Can the RTA kindly clarify what is the present regulation on cyclists, particularly those using footpaths meant for pedestrains in areas like Al Karama?
Neville
Dubai,UAE
Posted: February 04, 2009, 12:52
