It takes a daring cyclist to weave through traffic on the roads in the city. With the skyrocketing cost of motor fuel and the impact on environment, cities across the globe have begun introducing cycle-friendly routes.
This sign of change is yet to become apparent in India, but a few green organisations have been promoting this mode of transport through campaigns and rallies. The Indus Cycling Embassy (ICE), a non-governmental organisation in the city, intends to turn its efforts towards promoting cycling into a regular affair here.
To be flagged off on July 13, its Saturday Cycle Ride Movement is open for the public to join either at the starting point at Manaveeyam Veedhi or en route . The rally will be flagged off at 6.30 a.m. on Saturday by V. Adhimurthy, Satish Dhawan Professor and Dean of Research at the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology, an avid proponent of cycling.
14.3-km route
The 14.3-km route will cross Vazhuthacaud, Thycaud, Killipalam, East Fort, Palayam, PMG junction, Pattom, Kowdiar and Vellayambalam to return to Manaveeyam Veedhi.
The ICE has chosen this point to revive a culture of cycling. The road hosts cultural programmes such as short plays, poetry reading and painting exhibitions.
“Save energy, save Earth, stay healthy” is among the messages to be spread by the rally. The ICE was formed last December to support and organise activities that uphold environment conservation and even promote cycling-based sporting events and tourism. It plans to liaise with governmental authorities to include special tracks or lanes for cyclists.
For starters, it plans to conduct the cycle ride every second Saturday.
