The Vijayawada Municipal Corporation (VMC), under its green initiatives, is planning to develop exclusive cycling and walking tracks in a couple of stretches in the city. While the cycling track is being proposed on National Highway 5 from Ramavarappadu to Benz Circle, the walking track would be developed on Gurunanak Colony to Autonagar stretch.
Of late, there has been demand from cycling enthusiasts in the city for provision of exclusive cycling tracks in the city in an effort to reduce pollution.
Accordingly, officials have identified the Ramavarappadu to Benz Circle stretch, which is replete with green cover.
The proposed tracks would be developed on either sides of the stretch, facilitating cycling enthusiasts convenient and hassle-free drive.
Towards this initiative, officials have also roped in a private consultant to conduct a survey for taking up the project.
“If things go as planned, the survey would commence next week and once the report is finalised, works will be taken up,” said VMC Commissioner G. Veerapandian. This apart, efforts are being made to develop exclusive walking tracks on the stretch between Gurunanak Colony and Autonagar, enabling residents to go for walk in the morning and evenings.
Under the “Happy Streets” project, these tracks would be illuminated for identification and would be devoid of any vehicular traffic, ensuring safety of walkers, he said.
At present, the road widening works are being taken up on the stretch and they would be completed by June 15. Soon after completion of the works, walking tracks would be developed on the stretch. Based on the feedback from residents, similar tracks would be planned on different stretches in the city, he added.
