Proper Cycling Policies Can Reduce Pollution, Study Finds

New Delhi: Implementing the right cycling policies in developing countries can significantly reduce emissions and air pollution, a recent study suggests. Researchers from the University of Chicago and IIT Delhi conducted surveys with cyclists in four cities across India, Bangladesh, and Ghana to examine effective cycling strategies.

Need for Context-Specific Policies
The study highlights that cycling infrastructure modeled on European and developed-country standards does not suit cities like Delhi. Policymakers are urged to design plans that consider local conditions and the needs of residents. According to Rahul Goyal, Assistant Professor at IIT Delhi, “The lack of cyclists is not the problem; the issue is insufficient institutional support.”

Cycling Trends in Wealthy Nations
In many affluent countries, cycling has become increasingly common due to its health benefits and positive environmental impact. However, these policies are often unsuitable for low- and middle-income countries. Kavi Bhalla, Associate Professor at the University of Chicago’s Biological Sciences Division, noted that cycling has high potential to reduce transportation-related pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in developing nations.

Global South Challenges
Policies that successfully promote cycling in cities across the U.S. or Europe are unlikely to work in the Global South due to differences in income levels, population density, and infrastructure challenges. The study focused on Delhi, Chennai, Dhaka, and Accra, highlighting the need for tailored approaches to boost cycling in these cities.