NONMOTOR vehicle lanes were introduced on two busy roads, namely Zhenzhong and Zhenhua roads, in Huaqiangbei, Futian District, according to Shenzhen Special Zone Daily.

It is said that Zhenzhong Road originally includes three motor vehicle lanes. The road has been recently transformed with one motor vehicle lane turned into two nonmotor vehicle lanes for each direction, totaling 2.5 meters wide.

The change can enhance road safety as it allows pedestrians, motor vehicles and nonmotor vehicles to use separate lanes.

Both residents and deliverymen were found riding their electric bikes on the nonmotor vehicle lanes, said the report.

A Meituan deliveryman surnamed Huang said that his job requires him to be on time. However, major urban areas in the city lack nonmotor vehicle lanes, bringing in difficulties for him and his colleagues.

“It is hard to run smoothly on pedestrian paths as you have to make a way for pedestrians. Sometimes, we secretly ride on motor vehicle lanes but we’re afraid of being caught by traffic police or causing accidents. Now, the special lanes not only safeguard our lives but also help increase our work efficiency,” said Huang.

Nonmotor vehicle road safety has long been an issue in Huaqiangbei since new business models, such as app-based takeout delivery services, occurred. Given the situation, Futian District recently released a three-year plan (2021-2023) to improve traffic and transportation.

So far, projects on the two roads, specifically Zhenzhong Road and Zhenhua Road, extending 1,000 meters, have been completed to make nonmotor vehicle lanes.

All suitable road sections are expected to be added with nonmotor vehicle lane, said the report.

(Wang Jingli)