Delhi: The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) is preparing to develop a 52.95-kilometre long cycling corridor along the Yamuna River, aiming to promote eco-friendly transportation, environmental conservation, and better public access to the riverfront.
The project is part of a larger vision to rejuvenate the Yamuna floodplains and reconnect Delhi residents with the river ecosystem.
First Phase to Cover 24.15 km Stretch
In the first phase of the project, a 24.15 km cycling track will be developed on both sides of the river, stretching from the Old Railway Bridge to NH-24.
This phase will focus on creating a continuous and accessible cycling network while ensuring minimal environmental disturbance.
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Eco-Friendly Design and Construction
The proposed cycling corridor will be built using permeable (porous) materials, allowing rainwater to naturally seep into the ground and support groundwater recharge.
Key design features include:
- No permanent concrete structures along the riverbank
- Environment-friendly construction techniques
- Protection of the Yamuna floodplain ecosystem
DDA officials have emphasized that the project is designed to balance development with ecological preservation.
Public Amenities Along the Cycling Track
To enhance user experience, the corridor will include multiple facilities such as:
- Bicycle docking stations
- Parking zones
- Shaded resting areas
- Viewing decks overlooking the river
- Information and signage boards
These amenities aim to make the corridor a safe, comfortable, and recreational public space.
Connecting Citizens with the Yamuna River
According to DDA, the project is not just a cycling track but a broader initiative to reconnect citizens with the Yamuna River.
The development is part of a larger mission to rejuvenate over 1,700 hectares of floodplain area, transforming it into a biodiversity-rich urban green space.
Officials believe the corridor will improve public health while offering a scenic and pollution-free commuting and recreational route.
Route Modified to Protect Sensitive Ecosystem
Based on expert recommendations, the alignment of the corridor has been modified. Instead of cutting through sensitive river edges, the track will now be developed along existing embankments and pathways.
This adjustment ensures that the river’s fragile ecosystem remains protected while still allowing public access to natural surroundings.
Project Timeline and Execution
The project will be implemented in multiple phases. Once construction begins, the first phase is expected to be completed within approximately 12 months.
Currently, detailed surveys and coordination with relevant agencies are underway to finalize execution plans.
A Step Towards Sustainable Urban Mobility
The proposed Yamuna cycling corridor represents a major step towards sustainable urban transport in Delhi, combining environmental protection with recreational infrastructure. If completed as planned, it is expected to become one of the city’s largest eco-friendly public mobility projects.
