When gyms, swimming pools remained closed and physical distancing was made mandatory, health and fitness freaks mounted their bicycles and started pedalling their cycles on the streets. It did not only happen in Goa but all across the world, leading to huge demand for cycles and ultimately running the cycle shops dry of supplies due to logistics and transportation issues during pandemic.
The pandemic taught that to be fit and healthy one needs to be physically active. Regular physical activity can help protect one from serious diseases such as obesity, heart disease, diabetes and arthritis etc. Riding regularly is one of the best ways to reduce ones risk of health problems associated with a sedentary and ‘luxurious’ lifestyle.
Barely three years ago, in April 2018, the United Nations General Assembly declared June 3 as International World Bicycle Day. The resolution for World Bicycle Day recognises “the uniqueness, longevity and versatility of the bicycle, which has been in use for two centuries, and that it is a simple, affordable, reliable, clean and environmentally fit sustainable means of transport.”
Yes, undoubtedly bicycling is a win-win situation for all and China which celebrates its Cycling Day on September 17, the organizers of this event appeal and advocate that citizens should pay close attention to cities’ sustainable development; take actions to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution by cycling instead of driving; feel and love the cities through riding bicycles, and make the cities a better place. This has surely helped a major populace of China to take to cycling. Agree the country is not as warm as India and riding 10-15 kilometres a day solves a lot of issues. However, it is a different story that some of the corporate houses in China give incentives to their employees if they use bicycle to office and back.
Several bicycle tour operators have mushroomed in Goa which provide all equipment and bicycles for a time period to enthusiasts for a price. It is gradually picking up among the tourists as well. The tour operators basically offer three choices – heads of heritage, nature trail and food tours. Each comes with sub-categories for one to align the rider’s preference which is later customised by the operators for the satisfaction of the rider. Goa being a small state, does not lag behind in anything; be it natural splendour, adventure sports opportunities or culture. It is a welcome step toward environmentally conscious and sensitive state of Goa. People in general need to take this up seriously and start taking pride by riding a bicycle. It has to come from within and every single rider can become an inspiring and motivating person for those who are sitting on the fence waiting to decide whether to take on cycling or not.
The government too needs to take up some steps to decongest the overly crowded state capital Panjim. Several countries in the world have a “no vehicle zone” and people do park at a designated area to walk to the destination or hire a bicycle from the parking area to do their work in the restricted zone. In fact, the smart city concept had this and late Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar did launch this in December 2017 but then it fizzled out after he passed away. Parrikar did also mention that he would have loved to use the bicycle often, but is restrained due to his security cover but encouraged by adding that, “such kind of events should be held at least once in six months in every city.” In fact, he had also inaugurated the event NoMoZo (No Motor Zone), organised by social institutions from Porvorim. Hence, there is a precedence in the state and it could be worked out with more planning for better future.
In Goa too the interest has risen in bicycling and people are taking this as a “sport”, setting up challenges of completing 50 or 100 kilometres within a stipulated time. This got rolling when professionals entered the market by providing the riders the kit, guide and cycles at a particular price for a time period. The idea is setting in but at this time it is only for fun and when its starts shaping up as a part of the lifestyle then actual success can be achieved. With petrol and diesel prices soaring, it may not be too far when people actually take up bicycles by force.
