In reply to my article- Cycling Accidents on the decline -

David's reply to it.

This statement by the Chief Engineer of Major Roads in Bangalore, if indeed made by him, shows his lack of general knowledge.

["Krishna Reddy, Chief Engineer of major roads, BBMP, said that as the number of cyclists is reducing, there is no point in introducing special tracks for them."]

If Bangalore is PLANNING for the future, they should be very serious about this. In some countries such as Holland, many if not most of the people cycle to work, or cycle to school, or cycle to the train station to catch a train to work or school.

This is helpful for the entire country in less smoke, in less use of fossil fuels, in less health expenses, [people exercise and stay healthier] and lessens the congestion on the roads. Besides the less noise and other aesthetic benefits. Even people's minds are more relaxed because of the peacefulness of riding a cycle and breathing deeply of oxygen.

The number of cycles are reducing in Bangalore in part BECAUSE the roads are dangerous. My sons also want to cycle to school, but according to the Engineer for major roads, better I start a cold diesel engine in the morning, add to the Bangalore smoke, add to the congestion on the roads, make it more dangerous for 2 wheelers, cycles and pedestrians and race to drop my children off at school, then race back to get to work on time and race around to get my other purchases for the home etc. In Germany I went shopping on a bicycle, safely.

I think Mr Krishna Reddy should either retire, or go on a tourist trip to Holland and see how many THOUSANDS of people ride their cycles to the benefit of the individual and the country. Then think properly about how to plan for the future for Bangalore.

Concerned for the roads of Bangalore,

David