WeÛªve been hearing a lot about the cycling track thatÛªs coming up along the Marina Beach. There are now reports of a proposed cycling track along the Adyar River as part of the Chennai Cooum restoration project by the Chennai River Restoration Trust.
A whopping 32 km long network of bicycle lanes will span out to different parts of the city. It will also allow residents of Aminjikarai, Anna Nagar, Egmore and other areas to connect with the network and cycle hassle-free to the beaches.
The first time this idea came up was when Indian Formula 1 racer and cycling enthusiast Karun Chandhok suggested it at the BSA Hercules Chennai Cycling press conference in 2012 organised by CRX Sports. He cited Sao Paulo, Brazil as a great example for cycling lanes along river banks. Mr. G.A. Rajkumar I.A.S, Additional Chief Secretary to Government Youth Welfare and Sports Development department, who was the Chief Guest at the press conference, showed great enthusiasm and agreed that it will indeed be a fantastic way to promote cycling in Chennai.
Sao Paulo Riverside Cycling Track | Photo by Joe Keenan
Earlier this year, a study to restore the river was commissioned by the State Govt. This confirmed the feasibility of implementing cycling lanes as per the existing norms of Coastal Regulation Zones. The cycling lanes are expected to be laid on a land strip 2 to 18 metres wide.
ThatÛªs one giant step closer to becoming a cyclist friendly city. Way to go Chennai!
VIA: The Hindu
