The rise of Personal Mobility Aids (PMAs) as a family transport option has become a noticeable phenomenon in Singapore, with some viewing it as a nuisance, while others see it as a manifestation of family cohesiveness or a cost-effective alternative for transportation.
With the increasing Cost of Examination (COE) for cars, it is becoming challenging for families to afford private vehicles. Consequently, some families have turned to PMAs as a more economical alternative for their daily commute. This shift has led to a diverse range of opinions, with some expressing concern over the safety and civility of using PMAs as family transport, while others appreciate the innovation and practicality of this approach.
Some netizens have likened the use of PMAs for family transport where it is common to see entire families traveling on a single scooter or motorcycle. This observation raises questions about the future of transportation in Singapore and whether PMAs will become a more mainstream mode of transport for families in the years to come.
One of the primary concerns raised by netizens is the safety of using PMAs as family transport. The lack of protection and the potential for overloading pose significant risks to both the passengers and other road users. Moreover, the misuse of PMAs as a food delivery vehicle or a school bus for children has raised concerns about the enforcement of regulations and the need for stricter guidelines.
New type of family transport?
Despite these concerns, some netizens have highlighted the positive aspects of using PMAs as family transport, such as promoting family bonding and reducing the financial burden of owning a car. Additionally, the use of PMAs as a mode of transport aligns with the government’s push towards a car-lite society, where public transportation and active mobility are encouraged over private car ownership.
In conclusion, the rise of PMAs as a family transport option in Singapore has sparked a lively debate among netizens, with valid concerns and potential benefits on both sides. As the use of PMAs continues to grow, it is crucial for the authorities to strike a balance between promoting active mobility and ensuring the safety and civility of all road users. By implementing stricter regulations and guidelines, the government can help ensure that PMAs are used responsibly and safely, while still providing a cost-effective and practical alternative to private car ownership