Country’s first bicycle track opens in Chattogram

The country’s first bicycle track has opened in Chattogram city. The Chattogram City Corporation (CCC) built the nearly three-kilometer-long track on Airport Road to reduce traffic congestion, prevent environmental pollution and provide residents with more opportunities for a healthy lifestyle.

Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury inaugurated the track on Friday afternoon.

Speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration ceremony, Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury said cycling is not just a means of transportation but also one of the most effective ways to stay healthy. People in many countries around the world commute to work by bicycle. Cycling is environmentally friendly and plays an important role in maintaining physical fitness. Therefore, building safe bicycle tracks and walkways for citizens is not a luxury but a basic necessity.

The minister called on lawmakers concerned to take initiatives to build more bicycle tracks and walkways in different parts of Chattogram in phases.

Chattogram City Corporation Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain presided over the ceremony. He said the construction of Bangladesh’s first bicycle track was a proud achievement for Chattogram city. A walkway has also been built alongside the track as part of the development and beautification of Airport Road.

Special guests at the ceremony included Ershad Ullah, a member of parliament for Chattogram 8; Mohammad Abu Sufian, a member of parliament for Chattogram 9; and Enamul Haque Enam, a member of parliament for Chattogram 12. Chattogram WASA Chairman Idris Mia and CCC Chief Executive Officer and Secretary Mohammad Ashraful Amin were also present, among others.

Cyclists have also welcomed the initiative. They believe that building safe bicycle tracks will encourage more people to cycle and reduce risks on the roads. They also called for similar tracks to be built in other parts of Chattogram as well as in cities across the country.