PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
Dehradun’s population has grown from about six lakh in 2000 to about 16 lakh at present with the number of registered vehicles crossing 16 lakh. While public transport accounts for four per cent of the road traffic, private vehicles comprise 96 per cent of traffic in the city increasingly suffering from traffic jams. Amid this scenario, cycling is more than a sustainable transportation as it also protects the rider from various ailments. These views were expressed at a talk on challenges and possibilities in cycling in Doon Valley held at the Doon Library and Research Centre (DLRC) in association with Pahadi Peddlers.
Gajendra Ramola from Pahadi Peddlers said that Doon’s history is incomplete without cycles. It was the main medium of transport for the people since it was first manufactured. The biggest problem facing the city now is the rising number of vehicles and resulting jams. Ramola said that his team has been encouraging cycling culture for the past five years to enhance public health benefits and keep the environment clean. However, though a large number of trees have been cut to widen various roads, cycle tracks have not been provided on these roads. “Cycling is not just a means of transport but also an efficient way to stay fit, avoid various ailments and reduce noise and air pollution. Our group includes cyclists ranging in age from 10 years to 80 years,” he said.
The biggest challenge for cyclists in Doon is the absence of cycle tracks which has resulted in a number of accidents of cyclists. The few existing cycle tracks have deteriorated into showpieces due to encroachment and vehicles being parked on them
Padma Shri recipient Kalyan Singh Rawat said that Pahadi Peddlers along with the district administration had marked more than 70 natural water sources, out of which accurate documentation and mapping have been prepared for more than 40 sources. Cyclist Chandni said that for the past year, the Cycle Sakhi group has been promoting cycling among women.
DLRC programme officer Chandrashekhar Tiwari said that the discussion was aimed at developing a healthy, environment-friendly and sustainable lifestyle through cycling. The cycle is a practical solution to the rising traffic load, pollution and urban pressure, he said.
