Jalandhar, a city in Punjab, does not have a single dedicated cycling track, a glaring absence that was underscored on World Bicycle Day, which was observed on Tuesday. The lack of such infrastructure highlights the challenges faced by cyclists in the city, who must share roads with motor vehicles, often at great risk.
No Cycling Track in Jalandhar
Despite growing awareness about the benefits of cycling for health and the environment, Jalandhar has failed to provide a safe space for cyclists. The city's roads are congested, and cyclists often have to navigate through heavy traffic without any dedicated lanes or tracks. This not only discourages people from taking up cycling but also poses a significant safety hazard.
World Bicycle Day, celebrated annually on June 3, promotes cycling as a means of transportation and recreation. However, in Jalandhar, the day passed without any significant initiatives to address the need for cycling infrastructure. Residents and cycling enthusiasts have long demanded a dedicated track, but their pleas have gone unheard.
Need for Infrastructure
Cycling is an eco-friendly mode of transport that reduces carbon emissions and promotes physical fitness. Cities around the world are investing in cycling infrastructure, including dedicated tracks, bike-sharing programs, and parking facilities. Jalandhar, however, lags behind in this regard.
The absence of a cycling track is a missed opportunity to promote sustainable transportation and improve public health. Experts argue that building a cycling track would not only encourage more people to cycle but also reduce traffic congestion and air pollution.
As of now, there is no official plan to construct a cycling track in Jalandhar. The city administration has not responded to the demands of cyclists, leaving them to fend for themselves on dangerous roads. Until such infrastructure is built, World Bicycle Day will remain a symbolic event rather than a catalyst for change in Jalandhar.
