EDITORIAL - “Pedestrianization”

There is now a move that many see will greatly help solve the worsening traffic problem in Cebu City. And this effort involves a ban on practically all vehicles from certain streets of the city, a concept similar to what was being practiced in European countries for decades.      

Called the “pedestrianization,” the proposal is simply to convert some roads into lanes only for walking and biking. The National Economic and Development Authority-7 is set to commission a study to determine if such an idea can work in Cebu City.

In other countries, NEDA Regional Director Efren Carreon said, “pedestrianization” promotes a healthier lifestyle and revitalizes the economy. It was not yet known when the study will kick off and what areas are to be included in the program.

Speaking of banning vehicles from city streets, there was a proposal that calls for a ban of vehicles from the downtown area, especially Colon Street. The move, which seems to have died a natural death, is aimed at restoring the downtown’s old beauty.

Well, the move is undeniably a good idea. Since it encourages people to walk, it will surely bring great health benefits. Besides, it lessens pollution considering the reduced volume of vehicles that would ply the city streets.

However, it is highly doubtful “pedestrianization” will work in Cebu City. For one, banning vehicles from plying certain streets will only direct them to other areas, where there will be heavy congestion given the narrow roads.

We cannot deny the fact that we have too many cars running in our streets that the idea of dedicating some streets to the concept of purely for walking or biking is not really a practical thing to do to promote order.

Just because “pedestrianization” has been proven effective in industrialized countries for decades doesn’t really mean it will be 100 percent successful once applied in Cebu City.