Mubashir Alam Wani
Srinagar, Dec 31 : Started with an initiative to reduce the dependency on motorized transport in the Srinagar city, the eco-friendly transportation program (Bicycles) under the Srinagar Smart City project has logged 73,409 rides covering a distance of around 180,217.81 Kms during the year 2024.
The officials looking into the bicycle operations told the news agency that the feat highlights the growing adoption of sustainable commuting practices by residents of the valley.
The official said that with a slogan, “Burn Fat, Not Fuel”, the programme was designed to promote eco-friendly commuting and that the program has achieved remarkable milestones in 2024, contributing to the city’s green transformation.
As per the data, from January 1, 2024, to December 29, 2024, the initiative facilitated 73,409 rides across the city. Covering a collective distance of 180,217.81 kilometers, officials said that the program, as per their dashboard observation, has directly offset 45,582.87 kilograms of carbon emissions, marking a notable environmental victory for Srinagar.
As per the official, one of the standout features of the initiative was its unwavering commitment to service. “Operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, the program has never paused operations—not even for a single day. Whether it’s Eid, Diwali, Christmas, New Year, or any other occasion, the service remains available.”
The official added that as per their calculation, on an average each ride has covered a distance of 2.45 kilometers, and that with the reduced vehicular traffic, the initiative has also indirectly contributed to easing congestion and improving air quality in the city.
The official added that the initiative’s ethos, encapsulated in its slogan “Burn Fat, Not Fuel,” encourages locals to embrace active transportation methods like cycling and walking and that the program’s success reflects a shift in public attitudes towards health-conscious and environmentally sustainable practices.
He said the programme under the Srinagar Smart City has been lauded as a key component of their larger vision to create a livable, sustainable urban environment by integrating eco-friendly transport options.
“The message is clear, every ride matters. By choosing to cycle or walk, people are not only improving their health but also playing an active role in combating climate change. It makes us healthier, saves money, and protects the environment,” the official added.
