NHAI approves Rs.18.59 crore bicycle track for Ludhiana: MP Arora 

Ludhiana, June 8, 2024: Finally, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has given its final approval to construction of Bicycle Track along Laddowal Bypass on NH-95.

Confirming this here on Saturday, MP (Rajya Sabha) from Ludhiana Sanjeev Arora said that he has been informed on final approval by senior officers of NHAI in Delhi. The proposal for construction of Bicycle Track along Laddowal Bypass on NH-95 with a cost estimate amounting to Rs.18,59,62,865 was submitted for approval of Competent Authority. In this regard, it is to inform that the Competent Authority has approved the above proposal and to be taken up on standalone basis by inviting separate bids at RO-Chandigarh level. 

According to Arora, location of Bicycle Track will be Km. 5+060 to Km. 15+000 of Laddowal Bypass (Both Sides) and its length will be approximately 20 Kms (including both sides). 2.25m wide Cycle Track with Cement Concrete Pavement M-30 of 150 mm thickness laid over Granular Sub-base of 150mm thickness with the provision of street light poles, Road studs along the track on both sides and markings. Approximately 3.2 Kms length of Metal Beam Crash Barrier is proposed to rule out the possibility of conflict between cycle track and other vehicles, for the safe movement of Cyclists. Provision of signages (cautionary/ informatorily/ mandatory), markings, road studs, rumble strips etc. has been considered. Another key feature of the project will be that 600 mm Dia Pipes at every 500 m considered for efficient cross drainage.

Meanwhile, Arora has written a letter to the NHAI Chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav appreciating him for approval of cycle track project in Ludhiana. Arora wrote to the NHAI chairman that on behalf of the entire Ludhiana city, he would like to express his deepest gratitude for the NHAI's approval and sanctioning of the cycle track project along the Laddowal bye pass in Ludhiana. He further wrote that this forward-thinking initiative holds immense significance for Ludhiana city's future. He added that the construction of this dedicated cycling lane will provide a safe and segregated space for cyclists, encouraging the use of eco-friendly transportation and promoting public health within Ludhiana. This project is a major win for Ludhiana, and the Ludhianvis, are immensely grateful to the NHAI for recognising this need and taking decisive action. Arora in his communication to the NHAI chairman hoped that they look forward to the early successful completion of this project. Technical drawings of the project have also been made available to Arora. 

This was Arora’s initiative that the NHAI has approved the construction of Bicycle Track. MP had urged the NHAI Chairman to establish Bicycle Track in Ludhiana, which is considered a hub for the bicycle industry. He had apprised the NHAI Chairman that on World Bicycle Day last year, he had attended 2nd AICMA (All India Cycle Manufacturers’ Association) Awards Ceremony, wherein the demand was raised to build bicycle tracks and promote cycling and the industry as well. When the demand for construction of bicycle track in Ludhiana was made at the 2nd AICMA Awards Ceremony, Vijay Munjal, Group Chairman, Hero Eco, SK Rai, Managing Director, Hero Cycles Ltd and Tejvinder Singh of Big-Ben Group (JSTS) and Onkar Singh Pahwa, CMD, Avon Cycles were among those present there. 

Arora said, citizens of Ludhiana and cycle industry are appreciating this initiative. However, Arora said it is a proud moment for him that the industrialists of Ludhiana expressed faith in his capabilities as an MP. He said he is committed to doing his work for fulfilling aspirations of people of Ludhiana to make the city more beautiful and liveable place. He said development of city means development of citizens.