Kolkata: When Kolkata Police commissioner Ajay Nand was the assistant director (outdoor training) at Sardar Vallabhbhai National Police Academy almost 14 years ago, he had sought leave for 40 days and joined IPS officer GUG Sastry from the National Police Academy on a cycling tour from Kashmir to Kanyakumari to promote a noble cause. On Saturday, Nand was atop a cycle again. Nand, along with members of various cycling clubs, hit the roads at 6 am to promote road safety.
The state, through Labazar, has hinted that it might take another look at the stringent cycle policy in the city and examine if Covid-time relaxation is possible in the area around Howrah bridge. Lalbazar stated that it considers safety of all, including those on cycles, its priority, adding that road safety rules does not “discriminate” between a cyclist and a motorist.
Later in the day, the Sealdah Traffic Guard distributed safety kits — including fluorescent markers — to cyclists.
For years now, strict restrictions have been in place on cycling on main arterial roads, flyovers, and any other area as notified from time to time. Cyclists are also expected to obey one-way restrictions and other traffic rules. Cycle enthusiasts have been appealing for revoking — or at least relaxation of — the strict norms to promote an environment-friendly mode of transport. It is also the means of commuting for scores from financially weak backgrounds.
In a major policy shift in June, the BJP-led Bengal govt is set to conduct a detailed review of the long-standing bicycle ban on 70 major roads in Kolkata. Introduced by a previous regime, the restrictions had faced intense criticism for turning the streets into an extortion ground, disproportionately affecting working-class citizens. Data reveals that 73% of the city’s cyclists are “livelihood bicyclists” — couriers, milkmen, and daily wage earners.
Saturday’s rally started from the north gate of Victoria Memorial and ended at the Rangers Club. Besides Nand, additional CP (I) Devendra Pratap Singh and additional CP (III) Santosh Pandey, along with other senior officers of Kolkata Police, participated in the rally.
Inmcidentally, Nand arrived with his own cycle, and pedalled more than 8 km, travelling via Prinsep Ghat and Commissionarate Road.
“Kolkata Police remains steadfast in its commitment to making the city’s roads safer,” Nand said.