Problems arising from dockless bike systems aren’t new, clearly — heck knows how many stories we’ve dedicated to them. Here’s the latest one — Land Transport Authority (LTA) announced today that a whopping 278 dockless bikes have been impounded so far this year for being parked indiscriminately along walkways and bus stops, causing obstructions and generally being an eyesore to other path users.
In July alone, 70 bicycles have been impounded by Active Mobility Enforcement Officers (AMEOs) for being indiscriminately parked and not removed within the notice period. Among the 278 bicycles impounded, Singapore-based Obike takes the cake with the biggest share at 212 bikes, followed by China-based Mobike with 65 and ofo with one. Yes, we’re surprised about that as well — after all, ofo’s yellow two-wheelers are the ones that’ve popped up regularly in headlines in bike abuse cases.
But seriously, why do we need the service providers to babysit and clean up after us? As a country known for its clean and green reputation, this is rather unbecoming. Some netizens have suggested passing on the repercussions to consumers, since they’re the ones who get away scot-free for their irresponsible actions.
Others have also suggested setting up parking areas near bus stops and amenities to indicate where they can be parked since many claim they aren’t sure where they should be leaving the bikes.
In any case, the LTA is working with operators, town councils and other stakeholders to ensure Singapore can sustain a responsible bike-sharing culture. If that day ever comes.
