Bicycles—a humble mode of transportation- have been the backbone of Indian commuters for decades. More than ever, the rural population, including the informal workers in cities, is dependent on cycling, and we are slowly witnessing a shift in the urban populations as well. Why the switch? The COVID-19 crisis deeply impacted the urban population; fuel prices have sky-rocketed, the world economy seems uncertain, and the average Indian is spending a fortune on fuel for daily commutes. Indian metro cities are experiencing extreme weather conditions, and rapid urbanisation has overpopulated every corner of the city. Simultaneously, millennials and Gen Z are undergoing a physical and mental crisis like never before. Clearly, the mass shift to cycling is critical.
Cycling is a low-cost, economical, flexible mode of transportation for middle and low-income households and an eco-friendly and affordable transport mechanism. It is a proven way to combat physical disorders and experience mental calmness. Supporting the same, a UNEP report states the impact of cycling in reducing the risk of diabetes, some forms of cancer, cardiovascular diseases and depression.
A report by ITDP states three major reasons why countries must switch to investing in cycling. Notably, switching to cycling can positively impact the urban economy, from lowering the cost of transport and investing in bicycle-friendly infrastructure to saving city costs like less pollution and greenhouse gas emissions and creating multiple jobs and economic opportunities.
Why embrace cycling?
Cycling is known as one of the most affordable and scalable solutions for pressing issues of health, short distance travelling and the climate change crisis. The activity goes beyond connecting and commuting. In 2020, cycling was reimagined like never before. The informal working sector could carry on essential tasks during the lockdown, but it also became a breather for the urban individual, who was tired of being locked at home. In a couple of years, the interest in cycling found new roots among Indians, and today, it is a much-loved activity for rejuvenation and refreshment as well.
Cycling, as a physical activity, has proven benefits in improving an individual’s health and mental state too. Bicycles, like mountain bicycles and fat bikes, have become a means to explore the new and keep moving in different terrains. It can be a great way to escape the urban cacophony and a time-efficient way to combine exercise with your everyday routine.
When the world is reeling through a climate crisis, the bicycle is the only mode of transportation that can help us avoid the worst of climate disasters. In travel, a report by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) states, “If bicycles replaced motorised vehicles for short distance trips, it could result in an annual benefit of INR 1.8 trillion (1.6 per cent of India’s annual GDP in 2015-16) through energy savings (oil equivalent) and CO2 emission reduction.”
Such numbers represent how cycling can help countries not only achieve their sustainability goals but also adapt to a healthier form of lifestyle.
Cycling and India’s Climate Action
India’s stand at the COP-26 is ‘to intensify India’s climate action has the potential to bring investment and new technologies to support country’s transition to a clean and climate-resilient economy.’ To achieve this, a significant decrease in carbon emissions is the need of the hour.
Keeping this as the key aspect, bicycles need to take centre stage on Indian streets. However, only individuals employed in the informal sector resort to cycling to carry out their duties, and a large part of the population is still dependent on motorised vehicles for their daily commute.
One of the many reasons why cycling is still a far-away dream in Indian streets is due to the improper infrastructure and safety in them. Over the years, many reports and research conducted in India metro cities cited that there is little to no space for bicycle transit. In such cases, converting cycling to a public mode of transport needs dedicated groundwork to make it more inclusive, along with other transport mechanisms like motorised vehicles.
Along these lines, many Indian urban cities like Mumbai and Delhi have introduced bicycle sharing options for better connectivity. And this appears to be a start. Mumbai Metro and Delhi Metro have selected stations where they have launched this initiative for daily commuters. Further, cycling is thriving as a means of leisure, commuting, and physical activity in selected cities like Bhopal, Pune, Chennai, and Chandigarh; however, it has limited prospects.
CMD
Avon Cycles
Challenges for bicycles on Indian streets
India is still behind in witnessing cycling as an everyday mode of commuting in urban spaces. The infrastructure to make cycling accessible is still an ongoing challenge. India is developing, but the major spotlight remains in the metros, railways, and highways.
On the other side of the world, many cities have achieved this gigantic feat, wherein they have successfully launched their own bike-sharing systems.
Cities like China’s Hangzhou and Shanghai, Paris, London and Washington, D.C. have large cycling communities, making them a viable and valued transport option. Other prominent cities include Helsinki, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Berlin, Taipei, and Tokyo, which also have an active cycling infrastructure. In the Netherlands, many roads have separate lanes dedicated exclusively to cyclists.
Interestingly, many businesses and organisations in India have deployed delivery personnel on electric bicycles and hybrid bicycles for operations.
Further, cycling groups also facilitate biking on mountain trails to create rewarding experiences for travellers and tourists.
To unlock the true potential of cycling in terms of economic growth, tourism, travel, and environment and health benefits, there must be a strategic and dedicated investment in cycling, empowering better, eco-friendly, and safer Indian roads for tomorrow.
