Lost kingdom of bicycles – Revival of pedaling power faces dilemma

By Huang Daohen

Twenty years ago, four out of five Beijingers pedaled around the city on some of the world’s best bicycle lanes. It was a “kingdom of bicycles.”

Today is different as lanes are repainted for four-wheel traffic and the bicycle fleet is being abandoned for private cars.

Is the capital ready to become a new kingdom of 4 million cars? Probably not. Cars are increasing air pollution, traffic congestion and parking problems, and the government is finally starting to miss the good old days.

Several new policies aimed at reviving cycling are being pushed through, and the government hopes to have 1,000 bicycle rental booths around the city with 50,000 bicycles by 2015.
But privately-owned rental companies are cautiously optimistic: Many have invested millions since 2008 but are now struggling to survive.

Rental bikes are being reclaimed by nature in Wangjing area. CFP Photos