What To Expect: Authority plans to set up stands outside Bandra (E), Kurla (E) railway stations and BKC
The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has finally decided to revive its much-publicised cycle track project after three years.
The authority is planning to set up bicycle stands outside Bandra (E), Kurla (E) and BKC; tenders for the same have also been called. The cycling track at BKC which has been lying unused for the last three years will finally be put to use.
Over the years, the cycle track which was built at Rs 6 crore in 2011, turned into a parking spot for auto rickshaws. It became popular among bikers who would avoid maneuvering through traffic on the main roads. Finally, the purpose got defeated and cycle track was shut down.
In mid-2018, MMRDA had also shot down the idea to provide cycle stands in BKC and the two railway stations connecting it.
Now that the plan has been revived, MMRDA officials are asking private operators to supply cycles, create public bicycle sharing systems and operate them. "We will hold a pre-bid meeting on September 27 with interested parties. On October 11, we intend to open the bids received and select an operator," said an official from MMRDA.
Death And Rebirth
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Over the years, the cycle track which was built at Rs 6 crore in 2011, turned into a parking spot for auto rickshaws
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The cycle track also became popular among bikers who would avoid maneuvering through traffic on the main roads and ply through it
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In mid-2018, MMRDA had also shot down the idea to provide cycle stands in BKC and the two railway stations connecting it
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| MMRDA will hold a pre-bid meeting on September 27 with interested parties. On October 11, it intends to select an operator |
According to sources, the authority is planning to connect these public cycle stands with metro rail stations coming up at BKC in the near future. The Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet train project will also terminate at BKC.
"Bicycles are a good option for last-mile connectivity, especially within 1-3 km journey. The MMRDA should also keep in mind the safety of riders while starting this public bicycle sharing system," said Firoza Suresh, Bicycle Mayor of Mumbai and founder of Smart Commute Foundation.
The MMRDA, which is a special planning authority for BKC, have been harping about 'Smart BKC' project in which they claim to beautify this business hub. This too is moving at a slow pace. Hybrid air-conditioned buses and regular BEST buses plying in and around BKC run jam-packed, making the commute no less than a hassle for around 2 lakh office goers in BKC. The menace of auto-rickshaw drivers, especially those running on a share basis, adds to their woes.
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