Bhubaneswar: Cyclists and pedestrians will soon have an exclusive 2.4-km shaded passage along the left parallel road of the Jaydev Vihar-Nandankanan stretch in the city.In a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at promoting non-motorised transport, Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) has initiated the process to develop a covered cycle track and footpath between Hatiasuni Square and Ekamra Kanan.According to a tender floated by the BDA for the project, estimated at Rs 11.82 crore, the work is targeted for completion within six months. The authority has fixed Aug 31 as the last date for submission of bids for the ‘Shaded Cycle Track & Footpath Pavement’ project.The decision was approved during a recent authority meeting, with officials describing it as a pilot project that could be replicated on other roads if it receives a positive response.During the meeting, housing and urban development minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, who is the BDA chairman, said the project has been conceived with the city’s harsh summers and frequent rainfall in mind, which discourage people from walking or cycling.“The idea is to make walking and cycling comfortable throughout the year. If the model succeeds and adequate space is available elsewhere, similar facilities can be created on other stretches,” a senior BDA official said.The move comes at a time when Bhubaneswar’s cycling infrastructure remains underutilised despite significant investment over the years. The city has developed dedicated cycle tracks on several major corridors under the Smart City initiative. However, many of these stretches are now encroached upon by roadside vendors, parked vehicles and temporary structures, making them unusable for cyclists.Urban mobility experts have repeatedly flagged the lack of enforcement and maintenance as major reasons for the poor performance of cycle lanes. In several locations, cyclists are forced to ride on the main carriageway due to obstructions on dedicated tracks.Cyclists have welcomed the proposal but stressed the need for proper upkeep. “Building new infrastructure is always good, but authorities must ensure the track remains free from encroachment. Existing cycle tracks have become parking spaces in many areas. Without enforcement, the new track could face the same fate,” said Piyush Ranjan Rout, a regular cyclist.Residents living along the corridor said the project could improve the safety of pedestrians who currently have to walk on the edge of the busy road. “A covered footpath will be extremely useful, especially for senior citizens and children. During summer afternoons and monsoon showers, walking becomes difficult. The sheds will encourage more people to walk instead of using vehicles for short distances. It can also be useful for morning and evening walks,” said local resident Pratima Das.
