Set the wheels in motion for a cyclists’ manifesto

Source-This post has been created based on the article “Set the wheels in motion for a cyclists’ manifesto” published in “The Hindu” on 26 March 2024.

UPSC Syllabus-GS Paper-2-Social Justice

Context– The author highlights the fact that cycling in India should not just be considered as another transport issue but rather should be viewed as a matter of social justice with a transformative impact on people’s lives.

What is the data on cycling ownership and use in India?

1) National data– Considering the household ownership of cycles over the two decades, from 1998-99 to 2019-21, using data from rounds two and five of the National Family Health Surveys, respectively, the ownership of cycles has increased only marginally, that is, from 48% to 55%.

2) State specific data– In Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, the increase was from 30% to more than 75%, while in Uttar Pradesh, it was from 26% to 71%, and in West Bengal, from 53% to 79%.

3) Bicycle distribution schemes (BDS)-Under these schemes, different State governments provide free bicycles to children using either in-kind or in-cash transfers. Nationally, cycling to school increased from 6.6% in 2007 to 11.2% in 2017.

In rural areas, the levels nearly doubled (6.3% to 12.3%) while, in urban areas, the levels have remained stable (7.8% to 8.3%).

It is also observed that States that have implemented BDS have witnessed the greatest decadal increase in cycling to school. For example-In Bihar,BDS was launched in 2006, and the level of cycling to schools quadrupled from 3.6% in 2007 to 14.2% in 2017.

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What is the social impact of access to free bicycles?

1) Enhanced enrollments of girls-Under BDS in Bihar, the State government provided funds to girls who enrolled in class nine to buy bicycles. This has resulted in increased enrolment of girls in class nine and girls appearing for secondary school certification exams.

2) Enhanced participation of women in workforce-As per a survey conducted by a prominent NGO, women who were given a bicycle, along with some training, switched to cycling to go to work. Earlier, they used to walk long distances or take a bus. It has reduced out of pocket expenditure on transportation for women.

What are challenges posed by urbanization to Cyclist?

1) Multi-lane roads, flyovers, and wide junctions make it risky for cyclists to navigate through the traffic.

2) As per some studies, a cyclist is 40 times more likely to be involved in a traffic fatality than a car occupant.

State governments should broaden the coverage of the Bicycle Distribution Scheme. Further, cities should invest in dedicated cycling infrastructure such as cycle tracks, safe and secure parking, and repair shops.

Question for practice

Highlight the impact of enhanced access of bicycles to poor people. How does urbanization pose challenge to Cyclist?