Would you cycle your way to metro station?

Mumbai: The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has planned to begin a bicycle-riding movement in Mumbai, wherein cycle stands will be created so that Mumbaikars can cycle to the metro stations from their home or work place.

The newly appointed MMRDA’s commissioner R.A. Rajeev has also planned for a bike-share system near the metro stations. The agency looks at Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, where over half of the population rides bicycles as a role model.

When asked about the bicycle stands, Mr Rajeev said, “Copenhagen is called ‘city of cyclists’ where 52 per cent of the population uses bicycles for daily commute to work. I want Mumbaikars to be healthy and hence I am considering a bicycle movement.”

The authority aims to dedicate cycle paths around metro stations for commuters.

“A few dedicated cycle paths that will enable people to cycle to stations and back home. Bike-share system can also be considered if Mumbaikars embrace the concept,” he added.

Mr Rajeev further added, “The system will provide bike-stations around Metro stations with parking facility. Should there be reasonable response, introducing a ‘self-driven-cycle-cab’ can also be considered. One can also  cycle from one bike-station to another.”

However, cyclists from the city are sceptical about this idea after MMRDA’s failed cycle track project at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC).

Speaking to The Asian Age, Parag Desai, a cyclist who takes cycle tours in the city said, “If they are planning paths near metro stations, wide publicity should be given so that all are aware about it. The tracks should be
maintained well, unlike the one at BKC. The tracks will be successful only if there are strict rules, so that other vehicles don’t knock down the cyclist.”

According to official figures, 60 per cent of Finland and 57 per cent of Japan’s population uses bicycle. It’s 48 per cent each in Belgium and Switzerland. 37.2 per cent of China too uses bicycles.