A policy and institutional analysis of urban transport system: the case of Pakistan’s Lahore in the context of COVID-19

The bicycle is recognized as a sustainable mode of transport, yet in the developing world, its use is hindered by several factors. The COVID-19 pandemic, with its emphasis on isolation, created a changed travel pattern and thus an experimental environment for bicycling. This study examines Lahore, Pakistan, to evaluate bicycle promotion during and beyond the pandemic. It assesses policy frameworks, institutional implementation capacity, and the perception of cycling infrastructure and regulations based on the user feedback. Lahore, a major Pakistani city with significant development and capacity, has faced severe smog and poor air quality, highlighting the need for environmentally friendly transport. The study reveals an increase in bicycle use during COVID-19 restrictions, with over 96% of the respondents noting this rise. Many tried bicycling for the first time due to reduced traffic. However, post-restrictions opinions varied on whether the trend persisted. Better road infrastructure was found to corelate positively with the bicycling trend. Studies identified traffic lawlessness, high motorization, lack of infrastructure, smog, and harsh weather as major barriers. Despite the existence of civil society groups promoting bicycling, their efforts are hindered by lack of participation in policy and decision making. The study calls for addressing policy and institutional bottlenecks to promote bicycling in Lahore, with broader implications for Pakistan and other developing countries. Improved coordination among institutions and inclusion of user perspectives are crucial for creating a more bicycle friendly system.