The Coastal Road Cycle Track is a good initiative, however, it is far from what we see and experience in European countries. It might not be the right thing to make comparisons, but if we have to evolve as a cycling city, then the only way is to set new benchmarks with highest safety and quality and build things that will last hundreds of years. I spent half a day inspecting the cycle track and have captured my observations in a visual form in this blog.
Slide the images in this article left and right to see the Actual space and Re-imagined AI generated space.
1. A signage, flowers, plants and trees will enhance the beauty and vibrance of the entrance and make it more welcoming.
2. Make the ramp more engaging with lights and wall art.
3. Level the surface to avoid water accumulation and smoothen the track for an effortless riding experience.
4. Replace the tiles in the subway ramp and steps with anti-slip surface. Rough grooves can improve safety by providing channels for water to drain creating texture for enhanced grip for walking, cycling and wheel-chair users.
5. Make the entire cycle track in Red colour to prominently distinguish between the walking and cycling area. Add trees, flower pots, signages and reflectors for night visibility.
6. And the final point I want to make is that even the Marine Drive area can be re-designed with a dedicated and separated walking path, cycling track, bus lane and space for vehicles. And likewise, the entire city can be planned with an inclusive approach to focus and promote active mobility and emphasise on use of public transport, while de-incentivising car usage. Dedicated and safe bicycle lanes across the city will not only encourage people to ride for fitness, but also commute, thereby lower car dependency, and move towards a car-lite society. It will decrease cities carbon footprint, noise pollution, accidents, and improve quality of life with traffic calm streets and peaceful neighbourhoods.
Summary:
These are few examples on how the same space can be transformed with a better design. I am sure all the readers have understood the point I am attempting to make. As a city, our effort should be to construct everything which is practical, durable, eco-friendly, green, offers a good experience to people, and aesthetically made. Built everything with a creative mind!
If you have a counter view, better ideas or suggestions, please drop a comment. I will pick up the most relevant opinions and share it with the BMC. This blog is an attempt to add value to the cities growing cycling culture and infrastructure. Thus, every input counts.
Watch this video highlighting the actual situation of the cycle track and Subscribe to our channel:
Also read: HOW ACCESSIBLE IS NETHERLANDSÂ FOR ADAPTIVE CYCLING?
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Author: Vijay Malhotra, Mumbai.
