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Bali conference uses push bikes, shuttle buses
3/12/2007 17:56

Responding to heavy traffic with increased carbon emissions during the UN climate change conference, which is opened today in Bali, organizer of the conference in Indonesia's resort island of Bali has provided at least 200 bicycles and 120 shuttle buses as transport for delegates.

Roads within the Nusa Dua tourist enclave conference venue has also been closed to traffic to reduce traffic congestion and emissions loads.

"Each bus can hold 40 to 50 people. The shuttle bus system is estimated to transport 3,500 people per hour," Agus Purnomo, the chairman of the organizing committee, said in an interview with local press.

The buses continuously circle three drop off zones at the complex during the meeting. Drop off Zone 1 is at the entrance gates of the Nusa Dua tourist enclave, home for the climate change meeting. From the Nusa Dua gates attendees can either take a push bike, walk or bus to meetings.

While the tourist enclave has excellent pedestrian facilities, distances between conference venues under Nusa Dua's scorching heat make for hard walking conditions, but ideal for push biking from point to point.

"In addition to the buses, we will provide at least 200 push bikes. Initially, we planned to have 700 bikes, but some partners canceled delivery. At this stage we're certain 200 bikes will be delivered," the Jakarta Post daily quoted Agus as saying earlier.

Push bikes are available on loan to all attendees of the climate change meeting who hold a 13th COP badge. Bikes will be available at the three parking specific parking zones designated by the organizing committee.

"The service apply a 'first come first' principle," Agus said.

Nusa Dua is a resort beach located south of Denpasar, capital of Bali province. Public transportation is limited except for taxis. Conference participants from official hotels in Sanur, Jimbaran, Benoa and Kuta will be provided with shuttle buses from their hotels to the Nusa Dua conference site.

An estimated 15,000 people are expected to take part in the climate conference. Most of the activities are concentrated within the Nusa Dua enclave.



Xinhua