STRATEGIZING UTILITARIAN CYCLABILITY IN JAIPUR CITY

Abstract

Today, as India experiences rapid urbanization, Indian urban roads face increased pressure for efficient mobility. Urban roads are afflicted with a surge of motor vehicles, competing for road space, consequently leading to traffic congestion. Furthermore, this increased motorization contributes significantly to air pollution and noise pollution, leading to a degraded environment for motorized and non-motorized vehicle users alike. To address this, the promotion and facilitation of the use of sustainable modes of mobility is needed with urgency. A bicycle is an energy efficient, non-motorized transport that can be used as a standalone mode for short-medium trip lengths as well as in conjunction with other modes in a multi-modal system for last mile connectivity. Due to such versatility and efficiency, an increased advocacy for bicycles has been observed on a global and national level. National Urban Transport Policy (2014) highlights the need for a bicycle friendly environment in cities whereas under the Smart Cities Mission (2015) bicycle promoting initiatives such as, “Freedom 2 Walk & Cycle” and “India Cycles4change” have been launched. Although these have led to a greater cognizance for the benefits of bicycles among the Indian masses, an understanding of riders’ basic requirements for utility-based cycling is yet needed.