We often hear from cycling advocates that a cyclist needs a bicycle lane, an expensive bicycle, a perfect weather and so on. In last couple of days, we interacted with many cyclists who said that cycling was a passion or fashion or style for them rather than a compulsion to earn livelihoods. However, they concurred on a point that cycling need not to be an expensive show. Here is a study by local Governance Network.
What really bothers you when you are doing cyclingIJ
When motor vehicles let out loud sirens or just overtake us, we tend to increase our speed. The idea is one gets spurred to join a mad race.
Do you think a cycle lane will make it goodIJ
We don’t know what a cycle lane is all aboutIJ We only know roads are meant for everyone, but sadly we are the worst sufferers in the fierce competition to reach destination. What we expect is equal respect for a cyclist as is for a car or bike rider. Besides there should not be unnecessary parking on streets as it leads to traffic jam.
Is bicycle getting expensive these daysIJ
Yes, a good cycle normally costs between Rs7,500 and Rs10,000. It used to be within Rs5,000 some years back.
What is your expectation from cityIJ
Allow cyclist to move; don’t behave him as if he is a trespasser in streets and let him adequate space for free and secure parking.
Do you fear while bicyclingIJ
Today who don’t fear on the streetIJ Even a car rider is not safe. Unless everyone respects each other, the fear will be there. Auto rickshaw drivers must learn to ride safe and allow others to ride safe.
What about new flyoversIJ
The infrastructure may be needed for the city to decongest the roads but the cyclists suffer a lot to use flyover. Often a five-minute distance now takes over half an hour or more due to road closure, diversion or for a flyover or train line.
What would be your suggestions for the city decision makersIJ
They may do whatever suits car riders or other motorists but they must be empathetic towards the cyclists and make necessary road design and traffic management.
(Dr Rout is an urban planner)