Cycling in a city of traffic

Imagine Cycling on a fine morning with no chaos, the fresh air whispering in your ears. But how can you picture this serene scene in a city like Dhaka, where everyone is stressed by relentless traffic? Daily life here is a struggle, with people spending countless minutes trying to escape heavy traffic jams, whether heading to work in the morning or returning home in the evening. In such a city, where traffic is unbearable, few can imagine cycling on a quiet street, free from heavy traffic, and breathing in fresh air.

The people of Dhaka are always searching for recreation and happiness despite these chaotic obstacles. Cycling has become one of the most popular forms of recreation, especially among young people and children. Even senior citizens have shown a growing interest in Cycling. To overcome the challenges of Dhaka’s traffic, cyclists have formed various groups that gather early in the morning. Groups like Hemanta Riders, South Dhaka Cyclists, Mirpur Cyclists, and BD Cyclists are well-known in the city, attracting members of all ages.

These groups regularly organize cycling rallies, particularly on significant days such as Independence Day, Victory Day, World Mental Health Day, and World Children’s Day. Sometimes, they charge a small fee to provide matching t-shirts for participants, but these rides are usually free. The cyclists start their journey together from a specific location and, after completing their route, return to the same spot. To motivate participants, organizers often award medals or certificates. As young cyclist Sajjad Hossain says, “These groups are very effective in promoting Cycling. They encourage people to cycle and prioritize their health by recognizing their efforts with medals and certificates at the end of events, which is highly appreciated.”

Cycling alone in Dhaka, however, is challenging. One of the biggest issues is the lack of dedicated bike lanes, which makes it feel unsafe on busy roads. Cars pass without warning, pedestrians cross unpredictably, and the constant honking creates a stressful environment. For women, the challenges are even greater. Societal judgment and street harassment are common, and many families discourage women from Cycling. Additionally, the crowded streets make every ride feel like a potential accident waiting to happen.

Despite these obstacles, Cycling offers numerous benefits. It is an excellent way to stay healthy, keep the body active, have blood flowing, and calm the mind. Fresh air is a rare and much-needed luxury in a city like Dhaka, where the environment is often dusty and polluted. The unhygienic surroundings contribute not only to physical health issues but also to mental health challenges. Cycling, especially in the early morning, provides a quiet escape, allowing individuals to spend time with themselves, breathe fresh air, and improve their physical and mental well-being.

As female cyclist Sifunnesa explains, “Cycling saves money. With rising rickshaw fares, Cycling is a much more affordable option, especially for students. When the roads are congested, it’s easy to switch to the footpath and keep moving.”

In the end, Cycling is beneficial for health and a budget-friendly way to navigate Dhaka. However, for Cycling to become a safe and accessible option for everyone, better infrastructure and a shift in societal attitudes are essential. With the right changes, Cycling could significantly transform how people move around this bustling city of traffic.

Nawshin Mushtary is studying Mass Communication and Journalism at the University of Dhaka. 

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