A STUDY ON THE POTENTIAL BARRIERS AND CHALLENGES FOR CYCLING AMONG DAILY COMMUTERS IN COLOMBO DISTRICT, SRI LANKA: A WAY FORWARD OF THE TRANSPORT SYSTEM IN SRI LANKA.

Abstract

Active transport encompasses human-powered modes of travel, such as walking, cycling, skating, and manual wheelchairs. It offers several advantages for users, society, and a country's economy. Notably, it is a low-cost, health-improving mode of transportation that aids in reducing traffic congestion and environmental pollution. However, in Sri Lanka, active transportation hasn't been widely recognized as a primary mode for daily commuters. This study focuses on identifying potential barriers and challenges, specifically within the Colombo district. The research is limited to cycling due to data availability. Employing a quantitative approach, this cross-sectional study distributed a questionnaire among daily commuters traveling within Colombo for work, education, and other purposes. The questionnaire was distributed both physically and via online platforms, using convenience sampling with a sample size of 389. The data collected concerning respondents' perceptions of potential barriers and challenges were analyzed using the IBM SPSS statistical tool. The study identified four potential barriers: infrastructure, safety, environmental concerns, and public perception of cycling. Additionally, three challenges were recognized: costs associated with cycles, air pollution, and educational aspects. Moreover, the research revealed negative correlations between the usage of active transportation in Sri Lanka and the aforementioned barriers and challenges. The study concludes by proposing recommendations to promote active transportation, particularly cycling, in Sri Lanka in the future.