Mumbai: From next year, ride your bicycle along the Western Express Highway

MMRDA to implement Rs 21-cr project that includes footpath and greenery between Kalanagar and Vakola; transport expert says footpaths more required

If all goes according to plan, before the end of next year, bicycle lovers will be able to ride between Kalanagar and Vakola in a dedicated cycling lane. MMRDA, which will implement the project, has invited tenders for the Rs 21 crore project which involves a pedestrian footpath and green space besides the track.

Thackeray Jr instrumental

The project along the Western Express Highway is the brainchild of Environment, Tourism and Guardian Minister Aaditya Thackeray. In February this year, Thackeray had said that just like at BKC, MMRDA will develop a cycle track along the Western Express Highway (WEH).

Talking to mid-day, Metropolitan Commissioner SVR Srinivas said, "Phase I of the 2.5 km dedicated cycling track, which will be three metres wide, will be constructed between Kalanagar and Vakola on left of the north bound stretch of the WEH. There are some gaps along the road where we will have greenery to add to the beauty of the place and prevent encroachment. A proper footpath for pedestrians will also be provided where necessary." The track is to be extended upto Dahisar.

On November 16, MMRDA invited a tender worth over Rs 21 crore to refurbish a separator/ median between the main carriageway and service lane to include the cycle track and other facilities. The bidders will have to make bids for the same by December 13. The bidder who bags the contract will have to complete the project in six months and maintain it  for one year including Defect Liability Period. 

Expert speak

Transport expert A V Shenoy said, "A bicycle track is a good idea. But I don't think a pedestrian footpath will be of much use as very few people walk along the WEH. Footpaths are required where pedestrian density is high i.e. on roads inside the city in busy areas. Also why is MMRDA not considering a dedicated bus lane? It will be most useful. It was proposed earlier but no action has been taken about it yet. After the new BEST GM took over we had a meeting with him about it, and he had promised to pursue the proposal."

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