The Government of Telangana has successfully inaugurated India’s first-of-its-kind cycling track with a solar roof on Sunday, 1st October. The cycle track is 23km long spanning across the Outer Ring Road (ORR) and stretches between Nanakramguda, TSPA circle (8.5) in the first section, Narsingi, and Kollur (14.5 km) in the second section. It was built with a budget of 95 crore. Hyderabad city is the first city to have constructed it after South Korea.
The cycle track is a unique facility that boasts a global design and 16,000 solar panels on the rooftop, the inauguration has been officiated by KT Rama Rao, Minister of Municipal Administration and Urban Development. While speaking regarding the project he stated that these solar roof panels have the potential to generate a substantial 16 megawatts of electricity. This impressive energy output is equivalent to powering 32,000 streetlights or illuminating a remarkable 800 kilometers of city streets. He also threw light on the financial benefits of this eco-friendly project creating sustainable energy, “The investment in the solar panels is expected to be fully recouped in just six years, with the entire project becoming financially self-sustaining within 15 years.” This innovative approach not only reinforces the city’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions but also cements its position as the most environmentally friendly cycling track worldwide.
The Hyderabad Cycling Revolution community which hosts over 10,000 cyclists stated that the track will be accessible around the clock, offering cyclists shelter from the sun, rain, and other weather conditions; the solar roof panels and the track itself will isolate them from the main traffic on the roads, enhancing safety. Moreover, there will be five access points situated strategically along the track, allowing entry from Narsingi, Kollur, TSPA, Vattinagulapalli, and Nanakramguda. Ravi Sambari of HCR also pointed out the array of amenities available at all access points, including docking stations, health emergency facilities, food stalls, and much more. Every access point is equipped with CCTV surveillance with essential amenities such as first-aid stations, hygienic restrooms, adequate lighting, high-quality track surfaces and protection from vehicular traffic.
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