Cycle no more a travel vehicle in India

Statistics published by the Union ministry of road transport and highways show that as many as 23, 338 cyclists an average of four a day died in accidents in Uttar Pradesh in 2011 (highest in India) which was followed by Tamil Nadu with 1, 412 deaths.

A total of 6,824 cyclists died in accidents across the country in 2011. The statistics from the Union ministry of road transport and highways have surprised even the states transport planners, who have been calling for more dedicated bicycle lanes in Tamil Nadu’s cities. They said the number of cyclists who die in accidents has been on the rise in the state, but they did not expect such a large figure.

Experts said dedicated bicycle lanes would enhance the safety of cyclists and check air and noise pollution in cities. The lack of bicycle tracks on congested roads makes cyclists highly vulnerable in Indian cities. Cyclists do not get any road space in cities in the states (cities in countries like the US, France, China, Japan and Thailand have dedicated lanes that are safe for cyclists).

Students are scared to cycle these days because motorists drive rashly and most roads are in poor shape in Indian cities. The government (Tamil Nadu) gives free bicycles to school students, but they are unable to use them.