Bhubaneswar, Jun 3: There was a time when the bicycle was the primary mode of transport from villages to cities. It was not just a vehicle but a part of everyday life. Even in marriages, bicycles were often given as dowry. However, with economic growth and changing lifestyles, the widespread use of motorcycles and cars gradually reduced the importance of bicycles. Vehicles also became a symbol of status and prestige.
In recent years, however, people have once again started turning towards cycling—this time not only for transport but also for fitness, pollution control, and fuel savings. The bicycle is slowly regaining relevance as an eco-friendly and health-conscious choice.
In Bhubaneswar, the ‘Mo Cycle’ initiative was launched along with the popular “Rahagiri” cycling events, with the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) purchasing thousands of bicycles under the scheme. Introduced in 2018, the ‘Mo Cycle’ project aimed to promote pollution-free and smart mobility in the capital city.
At its launch, around 2,000 smart bicycles were procured, equipped with GPS tracking and digital smart-lock systems. More than a hundred docking stations were set up across the city to facilitate easy pick-up and drop-off. Dedicated red-painted cycle tracks were also developed along major roads to ensure safe cycling infrastructure.
To expand the initiative, Bhubaneswar Smart City Limited (BSCL) received an additional ₹1 crore under the central government’s “Cycles for Change Challenge” in July 2020. The scheme was expected to strengthen last-mile connectivity and encourage citizens to adopt cycling as a regular mode of transport.
However, the present condition of the project tells a different story. Today, many of these smart bicycles lie abandoned at traffic junctions and neglected spaces across the city, covered in rust and overgrown with vegetation. What was once envisioned as a flagship mobility project has largely failed to sustain momentum. Several bicycles have reportedly gone missing or been stolen, while many others are left unused and damaged.
Officials from the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation and BSCL are now attempting to revive the initiative. Damaged bicycles are being collected from roadside locations and sent for repair. Authorities have indicated that with improved planning and stronger infrastructure, the ‘Mo Cycle’ system may be reintroduced in a more efficient form.
Experts continue to emphasize that regular cycling can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Beyond being a mode of transport, cycling remains one of the most effective forms of physical exercise and a sustainable solution for urban mobility.
As Bhubaneswar looks to rebuild its cycling ecosystem, the challenge remains whether the city can turn a once-promising idea into a lasting reality.
