A cyclist's trauma

AHMEDABAD: With cool breeze blowing and dip in mercury, it was the perfect weather on Wednesday for those who love cycling like me to pedal through the dedicated bicycle track along the Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS).
I thought it was good that cyclists were finally getting their rights on city roads. BRTS route meant real democratisation of road space giving importance to the modest cyclist and pedestrian.
But, after the ride on Wednesday, I was left thinking has the BRTS really been beneficial for cyclists? While pedalling from IIM-A to Nehrunagar Circle, I had to face a lot of problems which explained why hundreds of cyclists, instead of cycling on the designated track, are forced to move on the main carriageway in the midst of bustling traffic.
For the first few metres from IIM-A, it was a pleasure driving under the canopy of trees. But the joy was short-lived. Cars and autorickshaws came right in front of me through small narrow lane roads breaking my rhythm. I hoped for better things to come my way. As I moved along, suddenly the exclusive cycle path vanished from the road and in front of me were countless parked vehicles on the track, especially at Keshavbaugh.
My ride was marred. The fellow motorcyclists and car drivers gave two hoots to road users like us. The blaring horns were another major distraction for me. It was strange to find motorcyclists in my cycle lane asking for a pass!
Some stray dogs also started racing with me. They were just happy in beating me in the run. The track was filled with dust which pierced into my eyes and nose.
The BRTS is praiseworthy but it should give proper thought and room to a cyclist's comfort. At every step during my ride, some or the other problem cropped up and I was left wasting my energy more on manoeuvring than enjoying cycling.
I was at my wit's end at the traffic junction at Nehrunagar Circle when I had no way to pass through the nightmarish traffic and so I thought of calling it a day.
Before embarking on the BRTS cycle path, I expected it to be an efficient, safe and hassle-free ride but to my dismay, it was a traumatic experience all the way.