Bicycle use declining steadily in Kanchanpur

Kanchanpur: The use of bicycles, once an essential part of daily life in the Terai region, has been steadily declining in recent years. Advancements in technology, growing attraction toward a more luxurious lifestyle, and time constraints have gradually pushed bicycles out of regular use.

Krishna Bahadur Air of Shuklaphanta Municipality-6 continues to use a bicycle regularly, covering a distance of about three kilometers from his home to the market. He believes cycling has positive health benefits. “Riding a bicycle keeps the body fit, and I have not suffered from any serious illness so far,” he said. However, most of his peers have shifted to electric scooters, motorcycles, and cars. In his experience, bicycle use has now become limited mainly to people with lower incomes or those with specific awareness.

The decline in bicycle use has also affected businesses dependent on it. Ram Bahadur Dhami, who has long been repairing and selling bicycles at Van Samiti Bazaar in Shuklaphanta, said that new bicycles were once sold daily and repair customers were frequent. Now, he said, it is difficult to sell even one or two bicycles a month. According to him, the bicycle business is shrinking due to the increasing use of electric vehicles and motorcycles.

Dhan Bahadur Chaudhary of Simalphanta was once an enthusiastic bicycle user but has now opted for a motorcycle due to time pressure and distant workplaces. “Although bicycles are environmentally friendly, it is difficult to reach destinations on time,” he said, noting that many people now prioritize saving time.

Social leader Dan Bahadur Air said that bicycles once symbolized social prestige in the Terai, where owning one was considered a sign of wealth. Over time, with the rise in motorcycle and car usage, he said bicycles have come to be perceived as a vehicle for the poor.

Teacher Dharma Bhandari recalled that bicycles were once the primary means of transport for teachers and students, and students were especially excited to receive bicycles as scholarships. He said the convenience of school buses and improved transportation has reduced the relevance of bicycles.

Despite the decline in users, bicycle prices have increased. Bicycles that cost two to three thousand rupees a few years ago now cost between seven and nine thousand rupees. Modern geared bicycles are priced between Rs 20,000 and Rs 60,000.

According to Karan Joshi of Jhalari, the younger generation has not been attracted to bicycles due to their slower speed. At present, bicycle use is largely limited to exercise, low-income workers, and a small group of environmentally conscious individuals.

Stating that bicycles are fundamental to a healthy lifestyle and a clean environment, Joshi said their use could increase again if local governments develop bicycle lanes and introduce policies to promote environmentally friendly transportation.