Local Actions Winner Publishes Research on Bike-Sharing Schemes

Local Actions Winner Dilshod Kholmatov, Tajikistan, and his team published a study on bike sharing, titled “Assessing the Viability and Impacts of Bike Sharing Schemes in Tajikistan: A Case Study Analysis in China, US, and Europe.

The study is part of Dilshod’s 2023 Local Actions Project, “Reclaiming Space for Walking and Cycling”. The Study looks to push forward the culture of cycling and guide other young leaders in implementing or researching similar projects.

“[The Study] will be useful in future projects and initiatives for both us and other donor organizations that finance the construction and reconstruction of urban roads and especially the integration of sustainable mobility. In a sense of the word, this study can also be a guide in the development of a national road safety strategy in my country for sustainable mobility.” - Dilshod Kholmatov

Below is the published abstract of the study;

Bike-sharing schemes have gained popularity as sustainable transportation options worldwide, offering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly mode of commuting. This research examines the potential for implementing bike-sharing schemes in Tajikistan, a country with a growing urban population and increasing concerns regarding traffic congestion and pollution.

Through a comprehensive analysis of the socio-economic, geographical, and infrastructural factors, as well as case studies of existing bike-sharing programs in other countries, this study aims to provide insights into the feasibility, challenges, and potential impacts of bike-sharing schemes in Tajikistan.

The findings of this research contribute to the understanding of sustainable transportation solutions in Tajikistan and offer recommendations for policymakers, urban planners, and stakeholders interested in promoting alternative modes of transportation.

Dilshod wrote the paper while he lived in China. During his stay, he was able to compare the cycling culture in Tajikistan and study different scenarios, guided by the data gathered from his 2023 Local Actions Project.

While abroad, Dilshod observed the possibility of living in a road user-centric community that prioritised active forms of mobility rather than car-based ones.

”Here in China, I clearly saw and witnessed a successful experience as well as a user of a large number of different vehicles, where sustainable mobility is preferred. Many of the ideas that are being implemented in China seem to be innovative and user-friendly in terms of engineering, road safety, capacity building, education, and technological progress. You will not believe how many people travel on bicycles, e-scooters, and motorcycles on local roads and universities! most likely, this is the center of two-wheeled transport”