People walk, cycle, play and have a ball during car free day In Mumbai

Thousands of people gathered at Carter Road on Sunday to cycle, skate, walk or just to enjoy a car-free road. The Khar-Bandra-Santa Cruz (KBS) Foundation organised the fourth annual car-free day to promote the habit of cycling among individuals.

"With the number of cars shooting up, people are finding it increasingly difficult to even walk on roads. The air and noise pollution is only going to get worse by the day. It is important now to promote cycling and walking," said Madhu Poplai, KBS member.

The air pollutant level in the city is almost always above the safe limit of 100 ug/m3. The highest level this month being 330 ug/m3 on February 13.

The entire one-km stretch of the road was blocked at both ends. Various recreational activities such as live music were performed. Football, cricket and cycling competitions kept the children busy.
Sixty bicycles were kept for visitors but most of the people brought their own bicycles, skateboards and roller skates.

"We have been here since 5am. Many people have come to us complaining about the blockades. It is not easy to manage these things. It cannot become a weekly affair," said a police officer patrolling the area.