India\'s first solar-powered cycling track opens in Hyderabad

Hyderabad: The country's first ever 23 km-long bicycle track with a solar roof was inaugurated by municipal minister K.T. Rama Rao here on Sunday. The track stretches between Nanakramguda, TSPA circle, including Narsingi, and Kollur via ORR between the main carriageway and the city-side service road.

The inaugural was attended by fitness enthusiasts and members of Hyderabad Cycling Revolution and Hyderabad Cyclists Group.  

Speaking on the occasion, Rao said that the track held significance because it promoted active mobility in a country, which is deemed the diabetes capital of the world.

"I have been a diabetic for 17 years now and I understand the challenges the next generation will have to reckon with. This track aims to put sedentary life at bay and promote non-motorised transport in an age when owning several vehicles is considered a fad," he said.

Rao pointed out that the government intended to build more dedicated cycling lanes in the financial district, neopolis, Gandipet and bring international cycling events to India.

The minister mentioned a tweet that he came across in August 2022, which highlighted the solar-covered track in South Korea. He sent a team to study the same in Korea and found solutions to certain deficiencies and improvised on them, he said.

"The track will generate 16 MW of power, which can power 32,000 streetlights or 800 km of street lighting. Otherwise, such solar generation would require 52 acres of land," the minister said, adding that HMDA would save on power costs. Moreover, the solar costs can be recovered in six years and the entire project cost within 15 years.

The project 'Healthway', built with a budget of Rs 95 crore, is 4.5 metres wide, allowing cyclists to ride alongside comfortably. The track is divided into two main stretches-an 8.5-kilometre section from Nanakramguda to TSAP and a 14.5-kilometre stretch from Kollur to Narsingi. The two converge at the Narsingi access point.

"The five strategically located access points make it convenient for cyclists from various parts of the city to enter and exit the track with ease," said members of Team Healthway.

Each access point is said to be equipped with CCTV surveillance with essential amenities such as first-aid stations, hygienic restrooms, adequate lighting, high-quality track surfaces and protection from vehicular traffic.

According to a release, the agency will be responsible for maintaining a minimum fleet of 125 bicycles catering to different age-groups. Promising to provide a 'holistic experience' the team mentioned that relaxation areas have been integrated alongside cycle repair and wash stations.

 "Beyond its recreational and fitness benefits, the solar cycling track is also a good ecological solution to decongest the city. With the ever-growing traffic woes, the track offers an eco-friendly alternative for commuters and reduces carbon emissions," said Maithri Rapolu, a cyclist and IT professional.

The track is being seen as a timely addition to the city's infrastructure as it promotes a healthier lifestyle and a more sustainable mode of transportation.

As an enthusiast Phanindra K., put it "We can finally pedal our way to fitness and sustainability on this incredible healthway."

The stations have a total of 850 bicycle parking spaces, including 375 for rental parking.