A very welcome initiative

As an avid cyclist this is a very welcome initiative from the City. We can be hopeful that not only will it promote additional non motorised transport and help to reduce traffic congestion, but that it will hopefully also greatly improve the safety and security of existing pedestrians and cyclists. Pavements and/or cycle lanes are inconsistent in the majority of Cape Town's suburbs and those that do exist are often is a state of disrepair rendering them unusable, or lack maintenance to keep them free from broken glass, rubbish, building debris etc. 

Another issue with the current cycle lanes is that motorists often give little consideration to them and willingly obstruct them by parking in them and cutting into them during heavy traffic. All of which is counterproductive to their intended purpose. 

With the rising cost of living, vehicles and fuel, combined with an increasing focus on healthy living, more people will inevitably commute on foot or by bike over time. However it is City's responsibility to ensure it is safe to do so and that the infrastructure and law enforcement supports this. Currently this is often not the case. 

Integrating this initiative with improved public transport options and public bicycle hire schemes will go a long way to relieving traffic congestion and encouraging more people to walk or cycle. Another consideration would be financial incentivisation of locally domiciled companies to subsidise bicycle purchases for their employees, similar to the UK.