Hyderabad Solar Roof Cycling Track map has unveiled its groundbreaking 23-kilometer cycling track. The brainchild of IT Minister K.T. Rama Rao, this ambitious project was inspired by a solar panel-covered cycle track in South Korea and was officially inaugurated just recently.
Exploring the Pink and Blue Lines
The newly unveiled cycling track is divided into two distinct lines: the Pink line, spanning 8.5 kilometers from Nanakramguda to the Telangana State Police Academy (TSPA), and the Blue line, stretching 14.5 kilometers from Narsingi hub to Kollur. Minister K.T. Rama Rao has made it clear that this is just the beginning, with plans to expand the network of cycling tracks throughout the city. This initiative aligns with the global trend of promoting non-motorized transport for a greener future.
Hyderabad Solar Roof Cycling Track Map A World-Beating Design
One of the standout features of this cycling track is its exceptional design, which includes a solar roof. In fact, it is the world’s second solar roof-covered cycle track, putting Hyderabad on the global map alongside similar projects in Dubai and Switzerland. The focus on cyclist safety is evident, with three dedicated lanes and protective barriers ensuring a secure environment for riders.
Amenities Galore
The Hyderabad cycling track is not just about cycling; it’s a comprehensive experience. There are five access points strategically placed along the track, each equipped with various amenities. These include parking facilities, food stalls, repair and rental stations, first aid facilities, rest areas, and advanced signaling systems. The solar roof is no mere ornament; it generates an impressive 16 megawatts of power, illuminating thousands of streetlights and covering extensive distances. This innovation is set to bring significant cost savings for HMDA, with a projected recovery period of six years for the solar panels and 15 years for the overall project.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this cycling track is a significant step towards offsetting carbon emissions and establishing itself as a global environmental icon. The strategic lighting ensures that the track can be used 24×7, 365 days a year, with added security provided by CCTV surveillance. Looking ahead, there are plans to introduce bicycle rental agencies, health food outlets, and retail kiosks, further enhancing the cycling experience. The operation and maintenance of the track will be handled by KMV Projects for the next five years, with Phase 2 envisioning additional sporting amenities for the community.
Hyderabad’s new 23-kilometer solar-powered cycling track is more than just a transportation route; it’s a testament to the city’s commitment to sustainability and a healthier future. As it joins the ranks of global cycling innovations, it’s clear that this track is set to transform the way residents and visitors navigate and experience the city.
Hyderabad Solar Roof Cycling Track Project Overview
The Hyderabad Growth Corridor Limited (HGCL) and the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) have jointly invested ₹100 crores in this ambitious cycling track project. Hyderabad-based KMV Projects Limited has been entrusted with the design and execution of this visionary initiative.
Taking inspiration from South Korea’s solar bike highway connecting Daejeon and Sejong cities, the Hyderabad track boasts an impressive feature: solar panel fixed roofs. These roofs serve a dual purpose by not only providing shade but also generating eco-friendly and sustainable energy to power the project.
The cycling track spans a total of 23 kilometers, divided into two segments. The Blue line stretches 14.5 kilometers from Kollur to Narsingi, while the Pink line covers 8.5 kilometers from Nanakramguda to the Telangana State Police Academy. Designed exclusively for cycling, it offers three lanes, each 1.5 meters wide, ensuring a smooth and safe cycling experience.
Amenities Along the Way
To enhance the cycling experience, the HMDA has strategically established five access points along the route. These access points provide various amenities, including car and bicycle parking, food stalls, cycle repair shops, rental stations, first aid stations, and rest areas. Additionally, a network of 50 CCTV cameras has been installed at key points, ensuring round-the-clock security.
Future Plans and Expansion
Looking ahead, there are exciting plans in the pipeline to make this cycling track even more attractive. Future developments include the introduction of bicycle rental agencies, health food outlets, and retail kiosks. Phase 2 of the project envisions the creation of a sporting arena featuring facilities for football, cricket, and other sports.
Furthermore, the HMDA plans to extend the HealthWay cycling corridor to connect with Hyderabad’s existing road networks, promoting non-motorized transport (NMT) and encouraging people to adopt eco-friendly commuting options.
Harnessing Solar Energy
A remarkable feat of this project is the installation of 16,000 solar panels in just 18 days, setting a new industry record. These panels not only power the cycling track but also illuminate the golden LED lights lining the path. They contribute to the drip irrigation system, toll operations, and the highway traffic management system on the widely used Outer Ring Road (ORR) in Hyderabad.
Traditionally, harnessing this level of solar energy would require vast expanses of land, but the rooftop placement of the panels optimizes space usage. This innovative approach not only promotes renewable energy but also ensures protection from the elements, making the cycling track usable in all weather conditions.
Overcoming Challenges in Hyderabad Solar Roof Cycling Track
The installation of elevated solar panels along the ORR posed its own set of challenges. Hyderabad experiences approximately 40 days of low power production due to varying radiation levels. However, the system is designed to compensate for these fluctuations, ensuring reliable energy generation for the remaining 11 months.
The changing terrain along the road presented another challenge. To overcome this, a 3D model of the terrain was used to ensure the roof’s continuity. Precision engineering and on-site fabrication were employed to meet the unique structural demands, with V-shaped columns in MS steel guarding the cycling path and GI roofing sheets with anodized coating.
Community Enthusiasm and Collaboration
This project has garnered immense enthusiasm from the local community, particularly cyclists. Subhash Pandey, a 64-year-old resident, reminisced about cycling to college in his youth and emphasized the positive impact of cycling on his health and vitality.
Santhana Selvan, famously known as the “bicycle mayor of Hyderabad” and a member of the Hyderabad Cycling Revolution (HCR), highlighted the community’s role in advocating for such cycling tracks. The initiative gained momentum after climate activist Erik Solheim’s tweet about South Korea’s solar-panel-equipped track, prompting a response from Minister K.T. Rama Rao.
A Greener, More Active Future
In conclusion, the HealthWay cycling track in Hyderabad exemplifies innovation, sustainability, and community collaboration. By harnessing solar energy and promoting eco-friendly transportation options, this project sets a remarkable example of how forward-thinking technology can reshape cities for a greener and more active future. It not only offers a unique cycling experience but also paves the way for cleaner and healthier urban environments.
