Boris Palmer angry: E-scooters block sidewalks and garages!

Boris Palmer angry: E-scooters block sidewalks and garages!

There is currently a lot of anger in Tübingen about the improper parking of e-scooters. The non-party mayor Boris Palmer publicly expressed his displeasure on Facebook. In his concerned contribution, he primarily addresses the dangers that incorrectly parked e-scooters pose to passers-by. Palmer provocatively asks whether “brain amputees” should also be allowed to take part in these transport-impairing means of transport, thereby expressing his disappointment at the inconsiderate use of the rental devices. According to merkur.de, complaints were even filed against the e-scooter operators in question in order to remedy the situation.

The city has already taken measures: the public order office imposes fines, which are passed on to users. Palmer encourages citizens to take photos of incorrectly parked e-scooters and forward them to the appropriate authorities. “E-scooters that block, beep and are difficult to handle have a negative impact on freedom of movement, especially for older people, wheelchair users and parents with strollers,” he explains on his social media suedkurier.de reported.

Need for action and responsibility

Palmer emphasizes that the responsibility does not lie solely with the city. With the introduction of new forms of mobility such as e-scooters, the transport transition has become a central issue in Germany that affects the quality of life of many citizens. The German Association of Cities sees the need for “sustainable mobility for all”, and the discussion about the regulation of these new means of transport is more topical than ever. The arguments supporting a change in mobility are diverse: not only is the well-being of citizens at stake, but environmental aspects are also playing an increasingly important role, as staedtetag.de emphasizes.

In this context it becomes clear: healthy coexistence in road traffic requires a rethink not only from cities, but also from users of the new forms of mobility. Against this background, Palmer supports the call for more scope for cities to develop and test sustainable transport solutions. Ultimately, the aim of exchanging best practice examples is to work together on a cleaner and fairer city.

The e-scooter case in Tübingen is an example of the challenges that come with the introduction of new mobility offerings. As is often the case, a little more mutual respect and consideration could make a big difference and make the sidewalks safe for everyone to walk on again.