The dreadful traffic condition in Dhaka has led the commuters to search an alternative mode of transport that would save time and help them to avoid the notorious traffic congestion. Some environmentally concerned citizens have found the solution through cycling. Cycling which was in use in the rural areas so long is now a preferred mode of transport in the city.
The main reason for choosing cycle is the saving of travel time. An online survey revealed that at least 75 per cent of the cyclists save more than an hour or more every day. What most cyclists like about commuting is that it provides a reliable travel time; they now know how long it may take to go from one place to another and thus they are able to make their plans more efficiently and effectively.
The survey result further found that the cyclists previously used all the modes of transport that are currently available in the city such as public bus, office transport, personal vehicle, taxi, auto rickshaw, rickshaw and even walking.
Cyclists can avoid many of the unpleasant incidents and experiences they used to face before while using other modes of transport such as waiting in long queues, prolonged travel commute, travelling in overcrowded buses, getting pick-pocketed, unpleasant bargaining about the fare and so many. In addition, the exercise of cycling helps them stay healthy and fit.
Another big advantage of commuting by cycling is financial savings, especially for those who used to travel by personal vehicle, taxi cabs, and rickshaws and auto-rickshaws. Though a bicycle costs money initially, but a cyclist may be able to recover the amount of money they spent for purchasing the bicycle in about six months.
Rather than waiting for a diverse, integrated and well-balanced public transit system, residents in the capital are encouraged to commute by cycling and enjoy time savings in their daily commute and various other benefits which will give them a peaceful mind, healthy body and extra cash in their pocket.
The writer is a transportation engineer, now working in Thailand. ridwanq@gmail.com
Cycling gaining popularity
Ridwan Quaium | Published: April 17, 2014 00:00:00 | Updated: November 30, 2026 06:01:00
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