Gurgaonites go car free to fight smog

Gurgaon citizens to take up #TheCarFreeChall enge. For a week, they will walk, cycle and use public transport only

There is no parking space and designated lanes for cyclists. Due to poor infrastructure, opting for cycle as a regular means of transportation is impossible at times SARIKA PANDA, A CYCLIST WHO HAS SIGNED UP FOR THE CAMPAIGN

C urrent scenario in Delhi-NCR: Schools being shut, kids and adults advised not to step out, parking prices rising manyfold, and the Capital being described as a ‘gas chamber’ due to smog.

The government agencies are still debating on the need for implementation of the Odd-Even car scheme, and other measures to control the smog situation. Meanwhile, the citizens of Gurgaon have come up with a week-long campaign called #TheCarFreeChallenge to highlight the infrastructural problems faced by pedestrians and cyclists. The campaign motivates residents to take up the challenge, and contribute in reducing smog, to breathe in fresh air.

“The drive will be observed from November 20 to 26. So far, 70 people have signed up, and by the time it starts, we expect more than 100 people to join in. We want to create an inclusive approach to public transport,” says Manas Fuloria, member of Raahgiri Foundation — organisers of the campaign.

Sarika Panda, who organises weekly cycle rides, and is a supporter of this campaign, says, “Everyone discourages use of cars, but, being a cyclist, I know what problems cyclists or pedestrians face on the road. We have such basic infrastructure that opting for cycle as a regular means of transportation is impossible at times.”

Latika Thukral, a Gurgaon resident, agrees: “People who live within 5km radius of the metro are unwilling to walk or cycle because of the poor facilities.”

The problems are not new, but the attempt to find solutions is. Panda adds, “In this campaign, we will walk and use cycles, metro and other means of public transport for a week, and later will share our experience with the media and the city administration. If right steps are taken, even traffic [woes] will be less.”

PHOTO: ARVIND YADAV/HT; PICTURE FOR REPRESENTATIONAL PURPOSE ONLY Gurgaonites will pedal for the cause of safe environment.