Guangzhou govt urged to support shared bikes, improve management

Almost 94 percent of Guangzhou residents believe the city government should support the bike-sharing industry to help reduce vehicle emissions, according to a poll.

An online survey of 2,238 locals between January and March found that 70 percent are satisfied with bike-sharing services in the city.

However, 64 percent expressed dissatisfaction over the management of such bikes, with poor parking and damaged bikes among the main concerns.

Fifty-one percent said they use shared bikes less than three times a week, 30 percent said three to six times, and 18 percent said more than seven times.

Chen Zhenxi with the Guangdong Consumer Council, which conducted the survey in partnership with the city's consumer council, said shared bikes provide a convenient, affordable and quick way for residents to travel over short distances.

However, he added, "Bike-sharing companies should improve the management of their bikes, and residents should be educated on how to use the bikes in a civil manner." Chen Lianshu, a lawyer with the Guangdong council, urged the government to tighten its regulations to standardize the operation of shared bikes and protect the legal interests of companies and users.

Huang Fengchao, a white-collar worker in Guangzhou's Tianhe district, said shared bikes help him avoid traffic jams in busy downtown areas during rush hour.

He said he usually rides a shared bike from his home in Panyu district to his office after getting off the subway. " It is convenient and economical," he said.

Yu Xiaoying, a housewife, said many of her friends and neighbors ride shared bikes, but the management of the bikes should be improved.

"I often find shared bikes parked inconsiderately, blocking the entrances of the meat and vegetable markets," she said.