In recent events, the Smart Cities Mission (under the purview of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs) has initiated the registration process for the India Cycles4Change Challenge. The Challenge was initially launched in June 2020. This article offers an in-depth exploration of this initiative, its aims, functioning, coverage and the rationale behind such endeavors under current circumstances.
Objectives of The Challenge
The primary focus of the India Cycles4Change Challenge is to motivate Indian cities to establish cycling-friendly interventions rapidly amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, with the support of citizens and guidance from experts. Cities are being urged to form comprehensive cycling networks using cost-effective strategies such as pop-up cycle lanes, non-motorized zones, and community-led cycle rental schemes. The Smart Cities Mission envisages a long-term plan where temporary interventions evolve into permanent solutions.
Coverage and Eligibility
The India Cycles4Change Challenge extends its participation call to all cities under the Smart Cities Mission, state/UT capital cities, and all cities with over 5 lakh residents. Eligible cities can enroll and submit their applications via the dedicated portal. The platform also accommodates registration for citizens, industry experts, and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), offering them a chance to express their interest in collaborating with the city for this venture.
Functionality and Structure
The program consists of two stages. Stage One, set to continue until October 2020, concentrates on launching prompt interventions to encourage cycling and the formulation of a scale-up strategy. Subsequently, in October, 11 cities will be selected to receive a reward of Rs. 1 Crore along with expert guidance to further enhance the initiatives during Stage Two, which will conclude by May 2021.
Knowledge Partnership
The Smart Cities Mission has chosen the India Programme of the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP) as its knowledge partner. ITDP will support the Mission in conducting the challenge, guiding cities to design and execute their proposals aptly.
Rationality Behind The Initiative
In response to Covid-19, there is an anticipated surge in the necessity of personalized modes of transportation. Several Indian cities have already begun to focus on promoting cycling as a pragmatic response to the pandemic. Besides environmental advantages, investments in cycling infrastructure can generate economic benefits.
About The Institute Of Transportation And Development Policy
Established in 1985 and based in New York, USA, the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP) has evolved from being a group of cycling enthusiasts to a prominent organization attempting to combat climate change and enhance the quality of life in cities. The India Programme of ITDP works with cities to develop and implement sustainable transport projects, and suggest policy solutions to consent social inclusion, reduce dependency on limited resources, improve road safety, and curb carbon emissions.
