In a move that could tilt the scales in favour of a greener, user-friendly and more accessible means of transport, Lalitpur Metropolitan City has taken the initiative to launch a cycle sharing scheme similar to the ones successfully operating in cities like London and Paris. If implemented, Lalitpur will be the first city in Nepal to introduce the docked sharing scheme, as Mayor Chiri Babu Maharjan intends to replicate the success achieved by the scheme in other countries. Despite all the fanfare, numerous caveats will undoubtedly be a cause for concern for the authorities.

Kathmandu Valley’s current road infrastructure, which is abysmal to say the least, is barely able to accommodate the ever-growing number of vehicles. It will now have to bear an additional burden in the form of a dedicated cycle lane on the inside track which will undoubtedly throw traffic management into further disarray. Assigning an exclusive lane for cyclists could be the least of the problems. A total redesign of the streets and the necessary paraphernalia to protect cyclists will also be required, apart from strict adherence to traffic laws. The haphazard traffic, caused by motorists, jaywalkers and the occasional stray animal that adds to the chaos, presents a challenge for the authorities planning a new scenario.

Safety is one of the most critical issues that will be encountered. It is perhaps one of the biggest banes people have to endure while on the roads in Nepal. There is absolute disregard for the simplest of traffic rules by all and sundry. In a country where motorists usually enjoy right of way over other road users, it will require a constant dose of awareness programmes to re-educate the public on the rights and responsibilities of road users. There are essential albeit niggling issues for the authorities to set straight alongside tackling the most poignant matters of finance, mechanics and the scheme’s functionality.

With sky-high fuel prices and the push for greener vehicles, perhaps the time is ripe to push for a cycle revolution. The stories of nations successfully implementing the scheme should spur the authorities to prioritise cycling for pleasure and as an alternative means of urban transport. But the authorities should equally be aware of why some nations failed in their implementation. There may be challenges concerning the city’s layout and other logistical issues. Still, perhaps the most overlooked and significant issue would be changing people’s outlook to make cycling more inviting and accepting. Who would have thought at the advent of the motorcars that a transport revolution in the future would require people to rethink and redesign their urban space to allow space for the humble bicycle?