One Planet Cities Pedalathon urges citizens to switch to public transport

Over 300 people participated in the cyclothon and marathon events organised as part of the ‘One Planet Cities Pedalathon’ here on Saturday.

Mayor Soumini Jain flagged off the event, organised by WWF-India and Kochi Corporation in partnership with ICLEI-South Asia, to promote sustainable modes of commute. Speaking on the occasion, the Mayor said global warming was a serious and threatening challenge that must be tackled immediately.

“We must volunteer for a change, be the change, as a change is always initiated on a small scale. A minor change in lifestyle and day-to-day activities can show significant results in the long term. Simple steps like riding a bicycle to work, or taking public transport for commute can be very effective. Further, by using our natural resources judiciously, we can bring in a great change not just to the people but also the environment,” she said.

Suchismita Mukhopadhyay, Associate Director, Climate Change and Energy Programme, WWF-India, said One Planet City Challenge had been engaging citizens on solutions related to energy conservation, energy efficiency and renewable energy over the years.

Sustainable mobility is particularly essential for a rapidly growing city such as Kochi.

It is important for citizens to make smart mobility choices in their daily lives. Simple individual lifestyle choices such as taking public transport, cycling and walking for shorter trips or even car-pooling could help decongest roads, reduce pollution and address climate change, she said.

An official statement said more than 70% of vehicular traffic in Kochi was constituted by privately owned vehicles, including cars and two-wheelers, which carry about 20% of passenger traffic in the city.

The introduction of metro rail system has taken the city a step closer to adopting sustainable mobility solutions.