Power to the pedal

Many bicycle stores have run out of stock and the cyclists have taken over Kathmandu. The fact that more people have been introduced and encouraged to use this ecofriendly means of transport is perhaps the only positive thing to come about this crisis.

So The Week caught up with a few of those who have recently switched to cycling to know their stories.

Riwaz Manandhar
22, student

I waited on the petrol line once and that was that. Since the transport problem was hindering my work as well, I thought the best alternative would be to invest in a bicycle. And I did. It’s made life so much easier. Getting to college, work or just around town would have been a hassle otherwise.
I have plans to stick to cycling even after the blockade. If anything I think this crisis has made many conscious of our unnecessary expenditures. For example, in hindsight it feels like there were many instances when I didn’t need to get on my motorbike but I used to all the time. Talk about wasting petrol. Plus I missed all the chances to get in some exercise. At the moment I love how cycling is helping me with my regular fitness.

Though the capital obviously can do better with more bicycle friendly facilities. Even in this shortage, competing against other bigger vehicles on the road is challenging plus I’m compelled to drag my cycle everywhere I go because of lack of safe parking spots. So bicycle lanes and proper bicycle stowing areas would go a long way to encourage people to continue pedaling around town.

Sunena Singh Shrestha
25, Integration Officer

It’s just been a week since I bought a cycle. So I’m still very much the newbie. I still struggle to cycle uphill and yes, there have been instances when I have got off as well. Though slowly I’m getting the hang of it. I now understand the gear changing part quite well. I guess it will take time to work on my stamina but I’m enjoying it. A ride in the cool December evening, in particular, is what I like the most.

I just didn’t see the point of purchasing petrol in black market. Why shell out Rs 350 for a liter that lasts a week in my scooter? It was getting ridiculous and since my place of work is far from my home, bicycle was really the best alternative. What’s more, I got it at a bargain. Rather than the fancy brands I went with Everest and so far so good. I haven’t heard other Everest riders complain either so that’s a good sign. If there are any concerns, it’s about having my new bike stolen. I do lock it but for my peace of mind, every hour or so, I keep checking on it from my office window.

Aviral Poudyal
30, Territory Sales Manager

First a spare shirt especially if your destination happens be work and second a bottle of water. I would say these are the must haves if you are cycling. Those who don’t cycle tend to fear that it can be time consuming and impractical for day to day life but Kathmandu is a small town and perfect for this kind of transport. I have to travel from Jawalakhel to Tinkune for work and it just takes me 5-10 minutes more to get there then it did on a motorbike. I actually bought my Gaint bike second hand, from a friend who lives abroad. It was definitely a good decision.

I have saved some petrol for emergencies and cycle around everywhere at the moment, even more so now that I got some lights installed on my bike. Not so long ago, I learnt they were crucial in a scary little situation. It was steadily getting dark outside and I was peddling along the main road when all of a sudden I heard a car screech into a halt. When I turned back I saw it was right behind me. There are some accessories that are very important if you are using a cycle in the city plus there is the maintenance bit as well. You could use a cycle for two years or 20 years depending on how you take care of it. But at this time, it is certainly a responsibility worth taking.

Sudeep Dhakal
33, Credit analyst

Around two months ago, there was this day when I had to walk around a lot. And I mean a lot. I probably walked right across Kathmandu and back. Since the blockade was in full swing, I had had many difficult days of commuting around town, both in public transport and on foot. But that day I decided enough was enough and walked into a bicycle shop. I bought a cycle without a second thought. It was an expensive buy but this has been one spur of the moment purchase that I have no regrets about. I’m genuinely enjoying it. I especially enjoy the part when people comment that I have lost weight from all the cycling around town.

I used to travel on a motorbike. So during my initial days of riding a bicycle, my fingers would automatically fumble around for the sidelights, the horn or I’d find myself trying to look at the side mirrors. There were times when my legs would tire and my hands would try to wind the accelerator as in a motorbike. Once the petrol shortage is over, I’m pretty sure I will switch back to riding the motorcycle because it is more convenient. However, I also have full intentions of continuing to cycle say at least twice a week. It has certainly grown on me.