Kozhikode's ambitious cycle project crumbles with bicycles lying unused and deteriorating

City cycle project out of track in Kozhikode

The Kozhikode City Corporation's cycle project, launched to encourage green mobility and provide women with safe, affordable transport, has stalled with bicycles lying unused and deteriorating across the city.

Ambitious plan fails to materialise

The project was designed with a clear operational framework: one cycle shed in each ward housing 12 bicycles, available for rent from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.. The pricing structure set rental charges at ₹20 for the first hour, ₹30 for two hours and ₹40 for three hours, with an additional ₹15 for every subsequent hour. The scheme also envisaged a mobile application and GPS-enabled bicycles, with Kudumbashree members entrusted with operation and management.

Implementation breaks down

After cycle sheds were constructed and bicycles supplied in some wards, the project got stalled lacking proper supervision. Bicycles brought for the project in several other wards are reportedly lying in the compounds and premises of private individuals. Even at wards where construction of sheds have been completed, the bicycles remain largely unused and have deteriorated due to lack of maintenance.

No oversight mechanism in place

"There is reportedly no effective mechanism in place to oversee the operation of the facilities or ensure regular maintenance of the bicycles," says a former coordinator of the Kudumbashree Mission from Chemmangad. The lack of an operational mechanism and the dearth of users have raised questions over the proper implementation of the project, which was intended to encourage non-motorised transport and offer an affordable alternative for short-distance travel in the city, she points out.

Missing community engagement

Some of the cycle club members in the city pointed out that the project was proposed and implemented without ensuring a proper management system. The Corporation authorities should have ensured the participation of various green clubs and youth organisations to take it forward as a public movement, they said.

Related infrastructure also underutilised

"The cycle track created along the South beach is also remaining unused as people mostly use it now as a walking track. Very few kids are making use of the area," said Sajid Ahammed, a local resident. He also complained that some of the traders were found misusing the space in the absence of proper surveillance.

Project scale and official response

The project was launched in 2024 at a total cost of ₹1.75 crore. Promotion of women's health was also one of the projected goals of the project under various local bodies.

Corporation authorities claim that the lack of cooperation from women led to the failure of the project. They also said it was actually implemented as a pilot project to check the public feedback in 10 wards.

The unravelling of the initiative reflects a gap between planning and execution, with the absence of community mobilisation and sustained oversight leaving expensive infrastructure and equipment to rust without serving the women and residents the project was meant to benefit.

Source: The Hindu