On July 10, 2026, cyclists in Hyderabad expressed dismay over the removal of a 34-metre section of the city’s 23-kilometre solar-roofed cycling track. The track, constructed near My Home Avatar Junction at a cost of Rs 93 crore, was altered to create a new U-turn. According to the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority, the removal was done on the recommendation of the Traffic Police to ease congestion at the busy junction. The Hyderabad Growth Corridor Limited stated that the roof over the removed section was taken down to address traffic concerns.
S Selvan, the Bicycle Mayor of Hyderabad, criticized the move, describing it as the slow and gradual disfiguring of world-class infrastructure. Selvan questioned the decision, asking if a Durgam Cheruvu cable bridge or an age-old palace would be cut for traffic betterment. Cyclists and residents responded to Selvan’s post, with one user questioning the track’s original planning and another urging authorities to protect the infrastructure. The cycling community has called the move a significant setback, despite authorities maintaining that the track remains fully operational via an at-grade crossing.
The removal of the track section has raised fresh questions about whether the city’s development prioritises motor vehicles over sustainable mobility. The cycling track, which is India’s pride and second in the world, has been an inspiration for many cities. However, the gradual encroachment and damage to the world-class infrastructure for the sake of motor vehicles have sparked concerns among the cycling community.
Image for illustration purposes only
📰 Source: Siasat Gulf