Pedal power; the answer to Riverside Road woes
Briardene resident, Siphiwe Rakgabale, believes through his business, an eco-travel and cycling business that could revitalise the area.
IN recent weeks various scenarios have been suggested as a way to curb the crime and degradation of Riverside Road. Some have suggested cutting back the vegetation along the river which would impact the environment, while another suggestion is the fencing off of the road. The recent stabbing of uMgeni Park resident and cyclist, Brad Wilson, brought the matter to the fore. Now, a Briardene resident believes he may have a green solution to the problems which requires pedal power.
Siphiwe Rakgabale, believes through his business, an eco-travel and cycling business that could revitalise the area.
“Riverside Road has such potential, due to its proximity to the uMgeni River and the nature trail just below road level. My idea came to me after working with the Green Corridor, we’ve been battling to get family orientated activities on this side of the river for so long. I thought of incorporating my idea and it hinged on the bird park. I think so many people go to the bird park then go home, but if there were other activities on this side, it might encourage them to stay and try it out.
Read also: Generous donation to bird park staff following Riverside Road stabbing
“My proposal is to have three facets to enjoy, hiking, cycling and paddling on this side of Riverside Road. The bird park are happy for me to have my container next to the bird park. I think the road could be revitalised by having school children hike on the trail, or getting local bird enthusiasts to do regular trails along the river. I’m fully aware of the crime problem and I think this could go a long way to alleviating the problem. One of my ideas is to have a patroller on a bicycle cycling on the route on daily basis. He could then also be upskilled into a tour guide,” he said.
Rakgabale, who lives at the Briardene Informal Settlement believes the idea could also help educate children at the settlement on how to ride a bicycle. He was recently donated 18 bicycles from a Cape Town company for his idea.
The initiative has been welcomed by Umgeni Estuary Conservancy’s Margaret Burger.
Read also: Two arrested for armed robbery for Riverside Road
- Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter to keep up-to-date with local news or follow us on WhatsApp on 060 532 5532.
