The recent e-scooter footpath ban has affected about 7,000 food delivery riders who use personal mobility devices (PMDs) as part of their livelihood.

Faces more challenges as an amputee

One GrabFood delivery rider, however, has had to endure more struggles than most due to his disability.

Saire Adnan had his leg amputated in 2013, and has been working as a food delivery rider since 2017.

He uses an e-scooter to help him perform deliveries.

Shared his experience on Talking Point

On Nov. 14, Saire was featured in an episode of Channel 5’s Talking Point to share his experience since the ban was announced in Parliament.

Despite the ban, he continues to work as a food delivery rider, and is careful not to break the law.

However, obeying the law means that he will take a longer time to perform his deliveries.

Takes a longer time to deliver food

In the episode, Saire was seen pushing his e-scooter manually using his leg while on footpaths and when crossing the road.

He also carried his crutches on his back.

As he did that, he simply said: "I hope the customer doesn't scold me."

At one point, Saire even took a break and sat on his e-scooter for a while, tired from the journey.

He was supposed to deliver the food in half an hour, but he eventually took 45 minutes.

Saire added that he used to complete around 10 to 12 deliveries each day, but can only do up to three or four since the ban.

This means that his income has been greatly reduced because of the ban.

Why he doesn't use a PMA

Persons with disabilities can opt to use a personal mobility aid (PMA) instead of a PMD.

PMAs are allowed on footpaths and are not affected by the ban.

However, Saire explained that he had tried using a PMA, but the battery does not last long. Hence, he can't travel far and perform many deliveries.

So his PMD is his only feasible mode of transport.

Other riders affected

Besides Saire, other food delivery riders have also been affected by the footpath ban.

Many of them turned up at various meet-the-people sessions (MPS) to voice their concerns.

During a closed-door session at Anchorvale Community Club on Nov. 12, Senior Minister of State for Transport Lam Pin Min explained that that the government is working with food delivery companies to facilitate the transition.

Top photos from Toggle.

Content that keeps Mothership.sg going

??
This event teaches you how to be your own farmer in the comfort of your own home.

???
Jio all your friends to see the northern lights in this city in Norway!

?⚓
A hipster's dream Europe itinerary that excludes the mainstream cities.

??
Did you know these are the most happening places in Singapore?