more-inNovember 17, 2013, was a landmark day for Gurugram when over 10,000 people decided to ditch their cars and come to Galleria Market to observe Raahgiri Day — India’s first car-free Sunday. Modelled after Ciclovia (cycleway), an event that began in Bogotá, Colombia, in 1976, to promote non-motorised transport, Raahgiri seemed well on its way to sweeping the nation and changing the way Indians commuted. The Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) provided bicycles and carried out activities to promote tree plantation and solid-waste management. Bhopal, Bhubaneshwar, Kochi and Pune have used the event to sensitise people on safety issues and the need for sustainable public transport. Besides promoting non-motorised transport, local administrations can use the event to promote good health, yoga and cycling,” said Ms. Bhatt.

Source: The Hindu June 25, 2017 19:30 UTC