The partial PMD ban introduced by the Singapore government last week divided the public.
Well, it seems like Singapore isn’t the only country in the region that has banned e-scooters from footpaths.
The Indonesian capital of Jakarta, too, is set to introduce laws that would restrict e-scooters on its street just days after 2 e-scooters riders were involved in a fatal traffic accident.
According to The Straits Times, the proposed move will restrict e-scooters to only bicycle lanes.
This means e-scooters will no longer be allowed on pavements, pedestrian bridges, and roads.
E-scooters that are privately owned, as well as those rented from GrabWheels, will be subjected to the new regulations. GrabWheels is an e-scooter rental service run by Grab Indonesia.
Errand riders may face a fine of up to S$48 (500,000 rupiah) and 2 months’ jail.
The move was introduced to ensure “the safety and comfort of pedestrians” said the head of the Jakarta Transportation Agency.
Early on Monday (11 Nov), two 18-year-olds riding a GrabWheel e-scooter were involved in a fatal traffic accident.
According to The Jakarta Post, the two friends were riding on the side of a street when a speeding Toyota Camry collided into them from the back.
The car also crashed into 4 other friends who were injured.
Our condolences go out to the families of those who tragically lost their lives. We also wish those injured a speedy recovery.
That said, given the coincidental timing of the bans, perhaps the Singapore government and the Indonesian can consider consulting each other to work out a feasible solution to assist those affected by the e-scooter ban.
Featured image adapted from Land Transport Guru and Instagram.