HAROON RASHID BHAT
“Cycling like other types of aerobic exercise can have positive effects on mental health, it reduces stress, anxiety, and depression. It can also boost mood and increase self-esteem. ”
Floating Shikarason Dal Lake &Nigeen Lake, the most exquisite Mughal-age gardens various venerating places of all faith, traditional cuisines (Waziwan), well-decorated handicrafts, and dried fruit shops givea unique identity to Srinagar City. To add one more dimension to its uniqueness and to sustain its allure, the Government has taken an eco-friendly initiative under the Srinagar Smart City Project which is the development of cycle points in and around the city. This Smart cycling initiative has enormous benefits.
Health Benefits:There has been an alarming increase in chronic diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid, Osteoporosis, etc. It is all because of a lack of physical activity in our day-to-day life. If we adopt and promote this cycling culture, we can keep ourselves at bay from these awful diseases. There is a study that regular and steady cycling burns about 1,200 kilojoules (about 300 calories) per hour. It reduces the unwanted fat from the body and consequently, improves our metabolism, ensures cardiovascular fitness, it improves blood circulation, muscle strength, and joint mobility. Cycling like other types of aerobic exercise can have positive effects on mental health, it reduces stress, anxiety, and depression. It can also boost mood and increase self-esteem.
Sustainable Mode of Transportation: Cycling is not only a great way to stay fit and healthy but also a sustainable mode of transportation that can help to reduce carbon footprint and save the environment. Whether we are experienced cyclists or a beginner, there are many ways to incorporate cycling into our daily routine. We can cycle to work, school, or the grocery store, join a cycling club or group or simply take a leisurely ride on a sunny day. With its many benefits. Thy bicycle has remained a very popular form of transportation in Africa and several central European nations. Counties like Japan, China, the Netherlands, and Denmark actively promote bicycles for shopping and commuting.
Good for Tourism Point of View:Cycling is the best way to explore the pristine places of Kashmir which are enriched by the beauty of nature. There is so much on offer, picturesque views of mountains, the foreshore road, exploring the interior areas of Srinagar city- old-aged structures, historical buildings, shrines, and above all it gives firsthand experience to our visitors about our Kashmiri culture. It can be a more enjoyable and enthralling journey for visitors.Predominantly this cycle riding can suit people of all ages if taken care of.
Impact onthe Environment: Switching cycling for more of our shorter journeys helps to protect biodiversity. It creates less noise, less air pollution, and results in fewer emissions that are warming the atmosphere. We can help to protect our green spaces in and around the city. Instead of just talking about it, it is good to bring positive changes to benefit the environment. We can lead by example and show our community, not tell. Often when people see someone making changes for the better they are intrigued and want to find out more. This is when you pass it on and inspire others too.
Now Our Joint Responsibility: Since everyone appreciations this move, but time demands that we should make this move workable on the ground through our actions and support. We must act sensible. In a recent post on Facebook, I saw some miscreants had damaged those cycles which is not a good sign for any knowledgeable societies.This indecent attitude defames our cultural identity. Every one of us must take care of these valuable assets as our own. Apart from this, It is the responsibility of the administration- SMC to keep these cycle points hassle-free, clean, and easy to access with the least formalities. Enhance its reach to the maximum number of people, Let us make this inexpensive, eco-friendly, and democratic form of transportation more and more viable and famous. Let us join hands to develop this culture.
Haroon Rashid Bhat is a teacher and columnist, can be reached at minamharoon123@gmail.com.
