The municipality of Como has introduced a strict new rule prohibiting cyclists from riding through a significant portion of the historic city centre. Beginning in September, individuals traveling through approximately 30 central streets will be required to dismount and push their bicycles.

Alessandro Rapinese, the mayor of the picturesque lakeside destination, implemented the prohibition after experiencing a collision with an electric bicycle last month. The mayor explained that the restriction is a vital step toward enhancing pedestrian safety in the busy old town. Under Italian highway regulations, the new mandate applies equally to traditional pedal bicycles and motorized models, as the law does not differentiate between the two categories.

The policy forms part of a broader overhaul of traffic management within the city's ancient Roman walls. Officials are establishing a specialized Limited Traffic Zone designed to curb congestion and address the ongoing surge in tourism. These wider regulations also place tighter restrictions on automobiles and delivery vans operating in the urban core.

Many of the thoroughfares affected by the cycling prohibition are among the wider avenues in the historic district, which are frequently utilized by commercial couriers. Mayor Rapinese detailed the rationale behind the policy in an online broadcast. He recalled stepping out of the municipal headquarters in July and being struck by an e-bike shortly after a meeting concerning urban traffic limits.

Although the mayor escaped serious injury, the incident prompted him to investigate local transit conditions and ultimately formulate the new restrictions. The policy has already encountered substantial opposition from residents and community organizations. An online petition has emerged to challenge the legislation, while a local civic group has questioned the legal validity of the ban.

Additionally, a local association has scheduled a demonstration ride to protest the restrictions in mid-September. Como joins several other urban centers across Europe that have moved to regulate personal transport devices. Similar curbs on cycling have been enacted in parts of Palermo, while cities like Paris have introduced rigorous safety mandates for alternative vehicles.

Reporting based on coverage first published by BBC News. Read the original report at BBC News.