Plans are under way to construct a cycling path connecting the Colombo Port City to the Diyatha Uyana in Battaramulla, the government said on Friday.
In a press release, Director, Western Province, Urban Development Authority, Y.A.G.K. Gunatilleke said the project will be beneficial to schoolchildren, employees, tourists and professional cyclists and will create a safe environment for those who travel on bicycles.
A 23km-long bikeway is being designed to reduce traffic congestion and to promote eco-friendly modes of transport by limiting the number of vehicles entering main roads.
The cycling path will be of a minimum width of 1.5 metres and a maximum of 2.5 metres.
Under phase one, 11 stations will be set up for renting bicycles. The rented bicycles can be returned to any of the 11 stations.
Based on the assumption that most people would use bicycles early in the morning, lighting and colouring in accordance with international standards are to be put in place.
The construction of this bikeway, due to commence at the end of this year, is expected to be completed by next year.