Bicycle lane v.s. Shibuya crossing: Which is the key to a greener KL?

On June 19, Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) unveiled a Shibuya crossing in Bukit Bintang, bringing Tokyo Ghoul vibes into the heart of the metropolis.

Shortly after, TRANSIT Malaysia started a discussion on Twitter over potential ideas to complement this newly minted design.

A Shibuya crossing is a popular scramble crossing in Tokyo, Japan where vehicles come to a halt as pedestrians trod across the X-shaped crossing lines. It is also found in major cities such as New York City, London, and Ontario.

Shibuya crossings are also said to improve walkability in high-traffic pedestrian areas and reduces the risk of accidents.

In response to the announcement, Bike Commute KL came up with a ‘green design’ featuring bicycle lanes and more pedestrian crossings.

“By limiting the number of vehicles or even fully pedestrianising our streets, we can reduce greenhouse emissions and land surface temperatures.”

However, some opined that the notoriously warm Malaysian weather would discourage many from fully switching to others modes of commute, defeating the purpose of the proposed ‘green design’.

What do you think? Let us know in the comments below!

Cover Images provided by Bike Commute KL

Sources: DBKL, Bike Commute KL, TRANSIT Malaysia

Editor: Anna Wong
Proofreader: Sarah Yeoh