Implementation barriers for prompting pro-cycling policies in starter cities: stakeholder views from Sri Lanka

Abstract

Starter cycling cities have less than 10% cycling mode share due to car-oriented urban design. Though Sri Lanka has a cycling history, rapid motorized vehicle use and infrastructure improvements have hindered cycling promotion. The Western province's average distance travelled by car is 6.1 km, a distance feasible for comfortable cycling. However, the lack of a cycling culture poses challenges to pro-cycling policy implementation. This paper examines barriers to implementing pro-cycling policies in urban areas of Sri Lanka which have a low level of cycling share in the existing context, considering that favorable policies and a cycling-friendly attitude are the most prominent factors needed for the growth of cycling mode share. Methods: The study aims to identify the public perception of cycling for utilitarian purposes and draws on quantitative and qualitative data obtained from in-depth interviews with seven key stakeholders and a questionnaire survey done on 200 participants. Results: From the results obtained from 200 employees in Battaramulla area, it is evident that the mere interest in biking to work exists within the community (71%) despite safety (77%) and weather concerns (36%). Better infrastructure (92.5% for segregated bike lanes, 90% for tree cover) and technology (81% for e-bike promotion) motivate biking. On the other hand, in the institutional background, most of the respondents claimed, barriers related to institutional and political support are what’s preventing pro-cycling policies from implementing (n=28), mainly planning for cycling lanes (n=12). Paratransit availability poses a unique barrier in South Asia. Respondents offer insights and recommendations to address these issues.