The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation has proposed the development of two dedicated cycling tracks in Visakhapatnam to promote a cycling culture and encourage healthy lifestyles. One cycling track is planned along a 5.2-km stretch near the Arilova Skill Development Centre at an estimated cost of Rs 3 crore, while another beach-front cycling track, measuring 700 metres in length and 10 feet in width, has been proposed near Sagar Nagar at a cost of Rs 2 crore. Together, the projects involve an estimated investment of Rs 5 crore. At present, the 2-km cycling track at the Health Arena near Kailasagiri is the largest in the city.
GVMC is also planning to develop 60 theme parks at a cost of Rs 10.97 crore. Tourists visiting Visakhapatnam are often seen cycling along the beachfront, particularly towards Bheemili. As the road stretch from Sagar Nagar to Bheemili is relatively less congested compared to other parts of the city, it offers both tourists and residents an ideal opportunity to pedal amidst natural surroundings, sea breeze, and a calm environment.
GVMC commissioner Ketan Garg said the proposed cycling track initiatives aim to improve the physical and mental well-being of citizens while prioritising environmental protection and community participation. “As part of this vision, GVMC is also undertaking the development of 60 theme parks. GVMC currently maintains 174 parks across all the zones, including 139 colony parks spread over 151 acres. Of these, 60 parks identified for improvement will be developed as exclusive theme parks in six packages at an estimated cost of Rs 10.97 crore. Each park will feature unique concepts such as nature, adventure, fitness and children’s themes,” said Garg.
The parks will include landscaped gardens, walking and jogging tracks, play equipment, open gyms, yoga zones, and cultural and educational exhibits. They will also incorporate sustainable measures such as rainwater harvesting, the use of recycled materials, and the plantation of native, low-water-consuming species.
Meanwhile, GVMC began observing “Cycling Day” on Monday. On the first day of the initiative, which will now be observed every Monday, commissioner Garg rode a bicycle from his official residence to the GVMC office to attend his regular duties. “Cycling not only improves overall health and physical fitness but also promotes mental well-being, reduces obesity, and helps prevent lifestyle-related diseases. I appealed to the citizens of Visakhapatnam to voluntarily participate in the initiative. People can prioritise cycling in their daily lives and fulfil their responsibility towards protecting nature and the environment,” added Garg.
