Cyclists frown as cycle tracks in Dwarka favour encroachers

The cycle tracks in Dwarka, built as a pilot project to promote green transport, are facing encroachment issues. The tracks, which were meant to be used by cycles, are now being used as parking spaces for cars, bikes, and e-rickshaws. The wicket gates, installed to protect the tracks, have been broken down by vehicles to access the metro stations.

At present, a 16 km track has been developed as part of the pilot project, and if successful, it is planned to be extended to a total of 60 km across Dwarka. The width of the track has been made at 2.5 m, allowing two lanes for two cycles to use simultaneously on both sides. The tracks are accessible through ramps from the main roads or streets.

However, the tracks are being damaged, and the marking stones are in a damaged state at several places. Cyclists from Dwarka are worried about the condition of the tracks, which are not being maintained properly.

DDA officials have installed wicket gates to prevent other vehicles from using the cycle tracks, but it seems that the gates are not serving their purpose. Neha Raizada, a cyclist from Dwarka Cycling Club, believes that the planning and execution of the cycle tracks have been lacking and callous. She also thinks that it is the responsibility of the DDA to ensure that the tracks are not used for parking or commuting by cars or bikes.

The cycle tracks in Dwarka have the potential to promote green transport and reduce pollution, but the authorities need to take action to maintain and protect them properly. The encroachment issues need to be addressed so that cyclists can use the tracks without any hindrance.