Hyderabad solar cycle track at Janwada misused: Funeral rites block riders; strict enforcement sought
The incident triggered a wider discussion within the cycling community about non-mobility activities on the track and the growing need for enforcement.
By - Newsmeter Network
Hyderabad: A group of cyclists on Tuesday reported that last rites for a person were performed on the Hyderabad Cycling Track near Janwada around noon, leading to a temporary obstruction of the dedicated mobility corridor.
The incident triggered a wider discussion within the cycling community about non-mobility activities on the track and the growing need for enforcement.
NewsMeter spoke to Santhana Selvan, Bicycle Mayor of Hyderabad, who first flagged the issue publicly.
Individual involved claimed to be sarpanch
According to Selvan, the event began around 12 pm when cyclists noticed a group performing post-death rituals on the track. The activity continued for more than an hour, during which cyclists avoided the stretch.
“When our cyclists asked them to leave, they didn’t listen and instead argued,” Selvan said. He added that one individual in the group allegedly claimed influence to deter intervention. “I am the sarpanch, and I know higher authorities,” the man reportedly told the cyclists.
The track was partially blocked, though the exact number of people involved is unclear. Selvan said he received calls from people on the ground and from local authorities who noticed the activity.
Claims of misuse of cycle track and the need for preventive action
Selvan stressed that the track is meant solely for mobility and safety.
“This is a world-class project. It’s about Hyderabad and Indian pride. If a non-mobility activity happens, it is an infringement. It is like trespassing,” he said.
He added that if such events go unchecked, they could set precedents. “Continuing to do things like this, birthdays and baraats will affect the track. So, we need to stop it from the root,” Selvan said.
The Janwada stretch, according to him, has not previously seen such disruptions. “This is the first time,” he said when asked whether the community had earlier complained of misuse.
Police response and follow-up
Soon after the incident, the cyclists posted videos and photos on social media and tagged multiple officials and departments, including the Cyberabad Police.
“Cyberabad Police have asked for the location,” Selvan confirmed. The group is currently evaluating whether to file a formal complaint. “We are rethinking. Based on the reactions, we will do what is needed,” he said.
There has been no offline contact yet from any department, and details about CCTV availability or potential witnesses are being compiled.
Cyclists’ concerns and appeal to authorities
Selvan said many cyclists felt unsafe and frustrated by the confrontation.
“We want this message conveyed clearly: this is a world-class infrastructure and has to be protected,” he said.
Cyclists and mobility activists emphasise that the Hyderabad Cycling Track, widely promoted as a unique, uninterrupted mobility corridor, is designed to encourage safe commuting and recreation without motorised or non-mobility activities entering the space.
The community is now requesting enforcement guidelines and routine monitoring to prevent obstructions and maintain the integrity of the corridor.
