Cycling banned in city centers in Italy
In June, the mayor was hit and run over by an electric bicycle.
**Italy introduces cycling restrictions in city center**
The mayor of Como, Italy, Alessandro Rapinese has decided to ban cycling in the historic part of the city. This decision was made after the mayor himself was hit by an electric bike.
Starting in September this year, cycling will be banned on about 30 streets in the city. Cyclists will have to lead their bikes and walk in these areas.
The measure has caused protests among local residents. Activists have begun collecting signatures to lift the ban. Cyclists plan to hold a protest march on the prohibited streets in mid-September.
"I am accused of making this decision because I was hit by an electric bike. This is undoubtedly true. A person acts based on his experience and I know very well what it feels like to be hit by one of these idiots," Rapinese said.
In June, the mayor was hit by an electric bicycle as he was leaving the city hall building, and the driver fled the scene.
Rapineze explained the ban as a safety measure in a crowded tourist area. The restriction will apply to both regular bicycles and electric bicycles.