NDMC plans 25 km cycle track for last mile connectivity

The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) will soon introduce a 25 km cycle track in areas under its jurisdiction in a bid to provide last mile connectivity and an alternate mode of transport for residents.

Officials said the cycle tracks will be constructed on bylanes and footpaths, and there would be no shrinking of roads. "As many as 500 GPS-enabled cycles will be available at various Metro stations, which will connect the stations, markets, and tourist destinations in the NDMC areas," an official said.

The Council is also planning to construct 30 stations from where people can hire these cycles by making payments through cards. "People can hire cycles from these stations at a nominal charge. They can drop the cycles at any of the Metro station. The Council will float a tender in this regard soon," the official added.

In the initial phase, cycles will be available at Metro stations including Mandi House, Race Course, R K Ashram, and Connaught Place. The stations will be constructed in such a manner that areas such as Gole Market and Mandir Marg are connected.

"This would also reduce pollution. The dedicated cycle track plan is still in the planning mode," the official said. The move will also lead to commuters parking their vehicles at home instead of the Metro stations.

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has already been running a 'hire-a-cycle' scheme from its Vishwavidyalaya station for the last six years, in partnership with city-based private firm Greenolution.