Neglecting bicycle lanes amid metro work will hit Brand K'taka'

Sumit Bhattacharya | NT

Bengaluru: Bengaluru, renowned as one of the most congested cities in India, has witnessed a notable shift in trends during the pandemic - the rise of bicycle riding as a prevailing norm.

However, the ongoing construction of the Bengaluru Metro rail has led to the elimination of numerous bicycle lanes along the Outer Ring Road and within the city.

This concerning removal of bicycle lanes amidst heavy traffic highlights a significant lapse in the authorities' commitment to effective urban planning, a concern underscored by Bengaluru's Bicycle Mayor, Sathya Sankaran.

Sathya conveyed his apprehensions to News Trail, asserting, "If this prevailing attitude towards bicycle activities persists, it will not bode well for the positive portrayal of 'Brand Karnataka'."

He emphasised the vital role of bicycle activities in fostering sustainable development and underscored the potential adverse environmental consequences stemming from this negligence.

Despite the eagerness of the bicycle community to contribute to enhancing the reputation of 'Brand Karnataka,' the authorities appear to remain fixated on prioritizing motor vehicles, he said.

Sankaran pointed out that such a fixation is far from a viable solution. Bengaluru's advantageous climate for cycling makes it one of the most effective modes of commuting.

Sadly, in its pursuit of metamorphosing into a metropolitan hub, Bengaluru risks squandering the opportunity to establish itself as a model for eco-friendly transportation, he added.

When asked about potential solutions, Sankaran stressed the critical importance of fostering open dialogues among policymakers, government officials, and the bicycle community.

In the midst of Bengaluru's ongoing urbanization wave, the bicycle community continues its tireless efforts to champion cycling as a mode of transportation.

Sankaran expressed profound disappointment at the removal of bicycle lanes, underscoring the alarming possibility of Bengaluru losing its unique identity and blending in with other cities across India.

As for plausible solutions, the Bicycle Mayor offered a proactive proposition - the government should undertake the construction of an extensive 2000-kilometre bicycle lane network that spans the entire city, thus enabling safe and efficient cycling for both recreation and commuting purposes. Furthermore, Sankaran advocated for the integration of cycle stands at every metro station, a move that would immensely aid cyclists.

The dedicated bicycle community continues to toil diligently, expanding its presence across the city and raising awareness through targeted campaigns.

These initiatives collectively aspire to boost community membership and foster a culture of rationality that resonates throughout society. Sankaran's concluding sentiment echoed the community's shared resolve in the face of adversity.