First Cyclists’ Demonstration in Greece

Cyclists in Athens take part in a rally to promote cycling as a healthy means of transportation. (Haim David)

ATHENS—'‘It was perfect... Let’s do this again, ’' a cyclist’s comment posted to the Podilates webpage after participating in an open bike rally that took place across Greece on Sunday May 10.

Cyclists all over Greece hopped on their bikes to promote cycling as an alternative to automobiles and buses, and to ask the Greek government to:

• 1. Allow the transportation of the bikes inside the metro.
• 2. Construct more bicycle paths throughout Greece, starting in Athens where pollution from vehicle exhaust fumes is so severe.
• 3. Include cyclist arm signals in the Department of Transportation driving codes to make it safer for bike riders.
• 4. Encourage people to use cycling as a means of transportation and promote ‘‘cycling culture’' so more people will use this mode of transportation, which other European countries have been doing for many years.

This first bike rally was deemed a success as about 10,000 cyclists took to the streets to protest in this unusual way in Greece.

Bicycles offer several advantages over other forms of transportation as they are easy to park, and they don’t create noise pollution or fill the air with noxious fumes that can have an effect on climate change.

Also, cycling is just plain good for your health. It has positive economic benefits for the government, the environment, and to the riders themselves.

Greek cyclists will organize more bike rallies to raise awareness about other sensitive issues, and all socially conscious people are encouraged to participate.

The next bike rally is planned for May 23 to protest the destruction of green areas near the Athens Airport that are being used to make roads for automobiles.