Riding a bicycle gives me a unique and ground-level perspective of my city, Faridabad. While cycling, I’ve noticed several concerning practices and systemic issues that not only affect cyclists but also the overall quality of urban life:
- Burning of Trash: Open burning of garbage is a common sight. This not only pollutes the air but poses serious health hazards for residents, especially cyclists and pedestrians who are more exposed to street-level emissions.
- Violation of Motor Vehicle Rules: There’s rampant disregard for traffic laws. Speeding, signal-jumping, and lane violations are frequently observed, making roads unsafe for everyone—especially for vulnerable road users like cyclists.
- Poor Waste Management: Overflowing garbage bins, littered streets, and irregular waste collection point to a weak waste management system. This not only tarnishes the city’s image but also contributes to environmental degradation.
- Encroachment on Footpaths and Cycle Tracks: Footpaths and designated cycling areas (where available) are often taken over by vendors, parked vehicles, or even illegal constructions, leaving pedestrians and cyclists with no choice but to use the main road, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Wrong-Side Driving: Many two-wheeler and even four-wheeler drivers use the wrong side of the road to save time. This practice is not only illegal but dangerously unpredictable for others on the road.
- Non-Wearing of Helmets: Many motorcyclists ride without helmets, reflecting a casual attitude towards safety and the law. This also sets a poor example for younger riders.
- Not Stopping at Red Lights: Jumping red lights has become routine. This disregard for basic traffic norms puts everyone at risk and creates chaos at intersections.
- Rash Driving and Road Rage: Aggressive driving, honking, overtaking from the wrong side, and verbal abuse are common, reflecting poor road etiquette and a lack of civic sense.
These observations highlight the urgent need for better civic awareness, stricter enforcement of laws, and improved urban planning. Making Faridabad a bicycle- and pedestrian-friendly city will not only reduce pollution and traffic but also promote healthier lifestyles.
YAGAY & SUN
(Consultant, Cyclist🚴, Environmentalist🌍, & Proud Father)
(Please discuss - What do you observe in your City?)
[Let’s make our cities Greener and Safer for all citizen].
JAI HIND
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