Tracks in Aundh,Baner lack continuity

Cycle tracks in Aundh and Baner areas are present only on the two main arterial roads Aundh Road and Baner Road starting from the Pune University circle.

These tracks were constructed during the Commonwealth Youth Games in 2008. However,such tracks are needed on other roads and lanes also which is otherwise crowded with two-wheelers and four-wheelers, said Pankaj Urse,a cycle enthusiast from Aundh. He said lack of tracks in lanes is a huge deterrent for cyclists.

While cycle tracks are also present on ITI Road and in some interior areas of Baner,they are hardly usable as they do not have the continuity,said a resident. The tracks are constructed in parts of 100 to 200 m. Since there is no continuity,one has to cycle on the main road through the heavy traffic. The narrow roads make matters worse, said Bharati S,another resident.

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Rashmi Vaze,a regular cyclist from Aundh,said,Early morning is the only convenient time for me to cycle in the locality. During the evenings,the roads are dominated by two-wheelers and four-wheelers. It is frustrating to ride through the heavy traffic during busy hours.

Residents feel that merely constructing a cycle track will not encourage cyclists.

While constructing cycle tracks is a positive sign,these tracks have to be maintained and made exclusive for cyclists and one has to ensure that no two-wheelers enter the track. Encroachments should also be curbed on these tracks, Urse said.

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