The huge surge in the popularity of online shopping is creating chaos on the streets of our cities and on our road networks. As the number of online deliveries is skyrocketing, the number of delivery trucks making sure we get our parcels has also increased. The result is that hundreds more trucks are clogging up city streets. This is increasing congestion and adding to levels of pollution. There are literally hundreds more delivery trucks in cities around the world all trying to get parcels delivered on time. Delivery drivers are battling for often non-existent parking spaces. Many are forced to park illegally, or double park, adding to the gridlock for other road users. And the problem is set to intensify.
The BBC reports that the volume of parcel deliveries surged by almost 50 per cent between 2014 and 2016. It said this could continue to increase by up to 28 per cent a year over the next three years. Many cities have taken tough measures to counteract the problems associated with the increasing number of deliveries. Many cities in Europe and Asia have barred deliveries during times when roads are busiest. London is looking at the possibility of using buses for parcel deliveries. Some areas of London are also cracking down on food delivery motorbikes after their streets were being 'swarmed' by scooter riders. Food delivery companies in one London district must now apply for permission to operate.
