Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has said the government will gradually develop more dedicated bicycle tracks across Chattogram city to promote cycling, improve public health and ensure inclusive urban development.
Emphasising the need to accommodate people from all walks of life, he said dedicated spaces should be created for cyclists and pedestrians as part of the government’s commitment to meeting the needs of every segment of society.
“Bicycle tracks exist across the world, and many people use bicycles to commute to work and carry out their daily activities. Cycling is an important part of the transport system and is also beneficial to physical health,” he said.
The minister made the remarks as the chief guest at the inauguration of the country’s first bicycle track on Patenga Airport Road on Friday.
He said the inauguration marked only the beginning of a broader initiative to develop cycling infrastructure across the port city.
“Many more bicycle tracks will be constructed gradually across Chattogram, allowing people to use bicycles for commuting, recreation and exercise,” he said.
Referring to an initiative by Chattogram City Corporation (CCC) Mayor Shahadat Hossain to create dedicated spaces for cyclists, Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury said he had discussed the issue with the mayor on several occasions.
The minister also stressed the need to develop pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, including walking paths along canal banks and other suitable locations.
“I have requested the mayor to create walking paths wherever possible, including along canal banks. There must be space for people to walk. People need to go outside and walk,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of outdoor activities for mental well-being, he said prolonged confinement indoors could negatively affect people’s mental health. A mental health crisis had emerged worldwide, and Bangladesh was no exception, he added.
He called for coordinated initiatives to ensure that people had access to safe spaces for walking, cycling and other outdoor activities.
“These issues did not receive much attention in the past, but now we are working to meet the needs of every citizen, one by one,” the finance minister said.
Addressing the three members of parliament present at the event – Ershad Ullah, Abu Sufian and Enam – he urged them to take initiatives to establish bicycle lanes and pedestrian walkways in their respective constituencies.
He also called on the CCC mayor to implement similar projects across the city, assuring him of the government’s cooperation.
“This is not a luxury; it is a necessity of everyday life. These are basic requirements for ordinary citizens in civilised and developed countries. We must fulfil these needs and create space for everyone,” he said.
The minister said the initiative reflected the broader vision of building an inclusive nation, adding that the government was working to ensure opportunities for all, in line with its economic priorities and BNP’s election manifesto.
Following the inauguration, the finance minister and the mayor rode bicycles along the newly opened track.
