Parikrama – Cycling away pollution

Bhubaneswar is gearing up to become a smart city soon. In a first of its kind in Odisha, a group of youth in association with Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL) will start Parikrama, a cycle sharing initiative.

The idea of a cycling program originated when Rudra Samantaray of Jay Odisha, a voluntary organisation decided to cycle around in Bhubaneswar with a few friends as part of a fitness regime. They were quick to realize that cycling in Bhubaneswar was hazardous due to pollution and congestion. The common rendezvous point inspired them to consider keeping multiple bicycles in one location for ease of access and lend them on rent. With a visionary zeal, these enthusiastic cyclists decided to take this concept to the public via a cycle sharing program and help curb pollution and congestion in the city of Bhubaneswar.

Commuters in the capital city would get bicycles by depositing their identity proof for an affordable amount of  Rs.100 which is refundable. The first six hours will be free and after that, one has to pay a nominal amount for a one-hour extra drive for cycles. The cycle sharing system will start with 30 cycles in six IOCL petrol pumps.

This eco-friendly system is very popular and successful in China and Europe. A few cities of India like Bangalore, Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai have taken this initiative up, as well.

The launch event will be held at Bhambra Service station near CRPF Square at 3.00 pm on January 23.