Panel recommends allowing bicycles and mobility devices on footpaths

A panel tasked with developing a set of rules to govern mobility devices has recommended that bicycles and all personal mobility devices (PMDs), except electric bicycles, should also be allowed on the pavement, reported The Straits Times. This includes kick scooters, electric scooters and unicycles.

The 14-member advisory panel, headed by Nee Soon GRC MP Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, unveiled its proposed set of rules and guidelines after eight months of work. Its recommendations cover three broad areas - rules and a code of conduct for users, the types of devices to be allowed on footpaths, cycling paths and shared paths, and the criteria for devices that are allowed in public spaces.

Reccomendations include developing a clear set of rules and a fair code of conduct for cycling, so as to safeguard the safety of all users. The panel also proposed registering electric bicycles so that it is easier to take action against errant riders and those who illegally modify their bicycles. A 25km/h cap on the speed limit on cycling and shared paths was also proposed. All devices are also recommended to meet certain physical specifications. 

The Transport Ministry said it will study the panel's recommendations and issue a response in due course.