4 days ago
This World Bicycle Day, Ludhiana's bicycle industry pedals for global upgrades
Ludhiana: As World Bicycle Day is observed today, Ludhianvis take pride in their city's legacy as a pioneer and leader in the bicycle industry in India. However, this pride is tempered by the stark reality that the industry is struggling to make a mark on the international stage.
Despite its dominance in the domestic market, Ludhiana's bicycle industry lags behind in exports, particularly in Western and developed countries.
The growing dominance of China in the global bicycle market has only widened the gap, exposing the limitations of local manufacturers in meeting international quality standards and advanced design expectations.
Industry representatives believe that govt intervention is now crucial to help the sector evolve and compete globally.
The president of the United Cycle Parts Manufacturers Association (UCPMA), Harsimran Singh Lucky, said: "It is time the central and state govts step in and facilitate collaboration between major players like Hero and Avon, along with industry bodies like UCPMA, to form a dedicated organisation for advanced R&D. This would enable the creation and implementation of sophisticated designs demanded by developed markets.
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A big market is waiting to be tapped, where China has gradually made inroads, he said, adding: "China exports 23 crore bicycles world over including West, whereas India exports about 75-80 lakh bicycles. You can see the huge difference. China's bicycle products sell for $250 whereas India goods are sold for only a fifth of the price. The gap is due to China's superior quality of the bicycles," he said.
In Europe, there are 1.4 bicycles per person and they seek quality, safety and comfort, but the export market mostly for India is Bangladesh, African countries, and a few others, he said.
The govt must facilitate formation of bicycle bodies to spearhead R&D, ease investment in this area, involve big players like Hero, Avon and TI to bring technology to India, innovate and excel and help democratise the technology to tap the international market, especially the European and other first-world countries.
The govt must also regulate the pricing of steel and raw material, Lucky added.
Despite being the manufacturing hub, Ludhiana is devoid of dedicated bicycle tracks.
"Infrastructure for riding bicycles must be developed in all cities," he said.
The govt, municipalities, and corporations must ensure the development of dedicated bicycle tracks in every city and town. Despite a growing willingness among people to adopt cycling for daily commuting, safety concerns continue to be a major deterrent.
Even factory workers in the last decade have gradually shifted to two-wheelers from bicycles, he added.
"It is being claimed that tracks have been created in Ladhowal, however, there is only for leisure. We need dedicated bicycle tracks for commuting as well," Raman, a resident said.
On the other hand, cycling not only helps reduce pollution but also promotes fitness, health, and overall well-being. This, in turn, contributes to economic growth by reducing the burden of illness, healthcare costs, loss of productivity, and income. It ultimately benefits both the community and the nation as a whole, said Amandeep, a cyclist.
