Lutyens’ Delhi to have cycle tracks by March ’17

If New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has its way, being a cyclist in Lutyens’ Delhi will soon put you in an exalted position as the council is planning to construct dedicated cycle tracks on both sides of all the major roads in its area. The tracks will connect all Metro stations, bus stands as well as residential sectors. As per the initial plan, cycle tracks will be at least 180 km and would be operational by March 2017.

The NDMC officials said after going through feasibility study the council has decided to make a Detailed Project Report (DRP) through ‘Total Station Survey’ method under which end-to-end connectivity from Metro stations/bus shelters to residential parts will be ensured and inter-sections/roundabouts will be made for proper and safe-crossing and to avoid criss-crossing. 

The corridors will be constructed along with/beside the footpaths and to ensure access to disabled people merging with the footpaths will also take place at some places. The council has fixed one year’s period to carry out construction works which will take place in several phases.

According to the officials, the NDMC comprises 180 kilometres major and 200 kilometres arterial roads. To cover most parts, tracks will be developed on the major roads first and then its required extension will take place. 

To execute the work properly, the council has been planning to divide roads into segments of 20 km. As NDMC has some stretches for cycle tracks, plans are on to merge them with the proposed network. With five-foot breadth, the design of the tracks will be based on models studied from foreign countries.

H P Singh, Superintending Engineer (Roads-I), said that keeping the national plan in view the tracks are being developed. The move will not only help cyclists but will curb pollution, reduce traffic volume and will ensure physical boost to the citizens. 

“As there is an enormous volume of motorists in the NDMC area, the need of the hour is to provide alternate means for travelling. If commuters get cycles from fixed spots and use them for reaching their destinations, it will change the face of traffic and will reduce pollution levels also,” said Singh.