Latest news with #ChennaiCyclists
The Hindu
02-08-2025
- General
- The Hindu
Chennai to soon get cycling lanes as part of CUMTA's Comprehensive Mobility Plan
Soon, cycling across Chennai will get smoother and safer; the city is set to get exclusive cycling lanes, with the Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA) focusing on cycling infrastructure as part of its Comprehensive Mobility Plan. The Comprehensive Mobility Plan, a report that examines ways to make commute seamless for city residents switching between different modes of transport, also recommends sustainable transport solutions. 'We have given importance to the creation of cycling infrastructure and clusters in the city so that it provides a secure environment for those who pursue it as a hobby as well as those who travel everyday for work. We have particularly focused on areas around educational institutions so that students can cycle back and forth to and from their residence,' an official of CUMTA says. Eleven areas, including Triplicane, T. Nagar, Ashok Nagar, Mogappair, Red Hills, Perambur, Vyasarpadi, Vepery, Poonamallee, Guduvanchery, and Kanchipuram have been identified for the development of cycling infrastructure loops, covering 46 km of roads in total, the official says. This apart, dedicated cycling lanes have been proposed along 156 km of new roads planned in the Chennai Metropolitan Area and along East Coast Road, where recreational cycling is common, he adds. 'A welcome move' Ramkumar B. of Chennai Cyclists, a part of the OMR-ECR chapter, who regularly cycles along with his family, says, post COVID-19, many took to cycling, especially along ECR, not just as a recreational activity but also as a way of prioritising their health and wellness. 'At present, it feels risky to cycle along ECR and OMR, with autos, heavy vehicles, cars, and two-wheelers indulging in rash driving. So, dedicated cycling lanes are a welcome move, and it would benefit hundreds of people,' he adds. Mugilan K., a member of Chennai Cyclists, Tondiarpet chapter, says he has noticed a significant decline in the number of cyclists -- those who cycle for passion as well as those who use it for regular commute -- in the last two years. This stems from unsafe conditions owing to damaged roads in several areas, reduced road width, congestion, and encroachments. 'The lack of exclusive lanes is one of the primary reasons many have dropped out of this activity. When such lanes come up in areas like Red Hills, Vyasarpadi, or Perambur, more will take to it, not just as a leisure activity but also as a mode of transport,' he adds.
Time of India
30-05-2025
- Time of India
Community Connect: Chennai's cycling community pedals for a greener future!
For Chennai's cycling community, cycling is no longer just about fitness — it's about friendship, purpose, and a greener tomorrow. With every early morning ride and weekend trail, the vibrant cycling community is rewriting the rhythm of city life. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now With World Cycling Day (June 3) just round the corner, we caught up with some of Chennai's passionate cycling groups to explore how they are reshaping the city's streets and spirit. 'Cycling is not just a hobby; it's becoming a career path' Ramanujar Moulana, founder of Cycling Yogis and an avid cyclist since 2010, shares, 'In the early days, only a few people would go outfor a ride. But now, the cycling scene has become vibrant and widely embraced. Many are taking it up as a passion, and a big reason for this shift is the rise of dedicated cycling communities in the city,' he shares. 'We cycle for various reasons, and now, a major focus is trail riding — exploring heritage, culture, and tradition. We've even expanded to international cycling tours, exploring Indian heritage across the world. We've ridden in countries like Sri Lanka, Cambodia, and Malaysia. This September, we're heading to Bali, where we'll take our bicycles and explore places that share cultural connections with Tamil Nadu and Southeast Asia.' 'Chennai needs better and safe cycling infrastructure' 'While enthusiasm is growing, what the city's cycling community needs most is safe infrastructure,' opines Soumiya, a college student. 'Dedicated cycle lanes and smoother roads are no longer luxuries — they're necessities. The desire to cycle is already there among people; what's missing is the confidence that they can do it safely. In a city like Chennai, where two-wheelers dominate and road rules are blurred, cyclist protection must be a priority,' she states. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now 'Our vision is to make Chennai the cycling capital of the world' Divagaran, co-founder of Chennai Cyclists, one of the largest cycling groups in the city, shares, 'Chennai has a vibrant and active cycling community, with several groups across the city. Our group has over 1,500 active members spread across 16 chapters in different localities, where we conduct regular early morning rides.' He says, 'When you do something as a group, it motivates you more than doing it alone. Group rides also provide greater safety, especially during early morning on the road. ' He adds, 'Our vision is to make Chennai the cycling capital of the world. We want to encourage people to use bicycles for connectivity. To support this, we've launched an initiative called 'Commute Bicycle.''
