Srinagar’s eco-bicycles suffer extensive vandalism 380 cycles damaged, 5 stolen

Srinagar, Jan 27: Despite the ambitious efforts to promote an eco-friendly environment in Srinagar through the Smart City Project, the city’s bicycle-sharing system has suffered setbacks.
Out of the dedicated 1,000 bicycles, over 380 have been vandalized, and 5 have been stolen, according to officials.
The Srinagar Smart City Project aimed to provide residents with an eco-friendly transportation option, but the unfortunate incidents have reduced the operational fleet to 600 bicycles.
The ongoing winter season has also led to a temporary reduction in the number of cycles available.
A senior official from the project expressed concern over the incidents, highlighting the positive impact of the bicycles on promoting clean transport and a healthier environment. The official stated that maintenance teams are actively working to repair and restore the damaged bicycles.
While acknowledging the challenges, the official assured the public that plans are underway to increase the number of bicycles in the coming months. The docking stations across the city, with varying bicycle holding capacities ranging from 5 to 20 cycles, play a vital role in making eco-friendly transport accessible to the residents.
The official highlighted the significance of the cycling project in reducing carbon emissions from traditional fuel-driven vehicles. However, the success of this eco-friendly initiative depends not only on government efforts but also on the collective responsibility and awareness of the community.
Addressing the issue of vandalism and theft, the official warned that those responsible would face repercussions, as the matter has been taken up by the concerned agency. Urging the public to embrace the green initiative, the official called for reporting any suspicious activities around docking stations or with the bicycles.
Soon after the bicycle sharing system was launched in Srinagar city, and in a short period of time, it has gained immense popularity.
On May 4 last year, the Jammu and Kashmir administration as a part of the Smart City Project, introduced Chartered Bikes – bicycles, in Srinagar as a mode of transport to reduce pollution and overcome traffic snarls.