Citizens cycled through the roads of Islamabad and called for the promotion of the healthy sport
Several stakeholders joined hands to hold ‘Cycling Sunday Islamabad,’ an event to bring families out for some cycling fun in the federal capital. The cyclists made their way to D-Chowk through Jinnah Avenue, enjoying the city’s greenery in the process. Urban Innovation and Islamabad Capital Territory Administration partnered with Urban Platform of UNDP, Islamabad Traffic Police, National Incubation Center, Islamabad Cycling Association and others to hold the event.
Cycling is a very healthy activity that promotes better fitness among the masses. The event also helps push for dedicated lanes for cyclists on the city roads, a model adopted by many European countries. It is also a good idea to reduce the carbon footprint by encouraging people to cycle whenever possible instead of using motor vehicles. The government already has a clean and green initiative underway, and it can help that.
DC Islamabad Hamza Shafqaat said that the event is for advocating dedicated lanes on the road for cyclists. “This event will deliver a clear message that the roads in Islamabad are safe for bicycles. We are committed to advocating for dedicated cycling tracks on the roads in Islamabad,” Shagqaat said.
Minister of Inter-Provincial Coordination Dr. Fahmida Mirza said that it is a good step by the city’s administration to promote a greener Islamabad.
Citizens appreciate the effort
Residents of Islamabad from all walks of life participated in the event. Naveed Iftikhar, a policy advisor, said that the event was meant to get people cycling again. “The feeling of cycling in the city center is something I aspired to regenerate through this event. Such events signify people’s will to cycle in cities,” Iftikhar said.
Secretary of Islamabad Cycling Association Haroon appreciated that event. “I enjoyed cycling in the city center. We usually go off-road for cycling events, but I hope that such activities also take place within cities across Pakistan,” he said.
Sundas Shahid, a professional cyclist, said that dedicated lanes would help women cycle frequently as well. “Women have minimal mobility options within the city. This event shows that if dedicated lanes are made for cycles, it will promote women’s mobility and empowerment,” she said.