Our forgotten mode of transport

One of the modes of transport which has been popular in Rawalpindi has been cycling; and recently, it has been much touted as a non-polluting, eco-friendly, fitness-building activity, which is an exercise.

“Cycling within Rawalpindi has many participants, from the toddlers on their first bikes to those who cycle because of their commitment to non-pollution, to those who cycle because that is the means of transport most affordable to them,” says Zaman Abbas. “Many children often begin their young days with the gift of a cycle from their parents; it is obviously a very pleasant activity for the child, and a cycle is a treat, a gift to be looked forward to. Where, typically, would young children cycle; in the street,” says Osaf Ali.

“The city has neither large streets nor large pavements. Still, I let my children cycle on them. I do not let the children get on the road or in the traffic, but unfortunately, streets are full of cars and bikes these days therefore at times I get worried,” says Muhammad Baqir. “Although I am around some time to keep an eye on them it is a difficult task. Often I see my daughter Mahnoor Fatima, age 7, sailing past me and smiling while ringing her cycle bell for all she is worth,” adds Muhammad Baqir.

“Our problems arise when the cycling children have to share the streets with the cars; the priority, of course, goes to the motorists. Children and their parents have to remain careful,” says Aon Muhammad. “The attitude of motorists-take-priority-over-cyclists spills over into all spaces. Non-motorized transport like cycles are always viewed as a nuisance and an impediment,” says Turab Haider. “I have seen people cycling in every area of the city, even on main city roads and Islamabad Expressway in the hot summer sun, or the pouring monsoon rain,” says Sahgeer Hussain.

“For many school-going youngsters, too, cycles remain a very popular mode of transport. I saw several children in my area biking back from school; one little fellow, going home from his school, smiled at me and said, “I cycle along the trees on the campus,” says Faraj Mehdi. “Cycles are also able to negotiate traffic very differently from four-wheelers. The little machines have the convenience of going down one-way roads and taking shortcuts, that four-wheelers cannot take,” says Zeeshan Ali.