Agartala (Tripura) Jun 30: A proposal has been submitted to the Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC) to provide bicycles to ‘Swachhata Senanis’ (cleanliness warriors).
In view of emerging pollution scenario in Agartala and other towns in Tripura arising due to massive infrastructure development and private construction works, the unique initiative is crucial.
Apart from promoting eco-friendly transport system, the initiative aims at promoting sustainability and supporting frontline sanitation workers, The move is expected to ease their daily commute, reduce travel expenses, and boost self-reliance.
Sharing details of the initiative pertaining to providing bicycles to Swachhata Senanis, Agartala’s Bicycle Mayor Gopesh Debnath remarked, “A bicycle is not just a mode of transport; it’s a path to transformation.”
He emphasized that encouraging cycling among cleanliness warriors would not only improve their mobility but also inspire a larger shift toward sustainable urban living.
Sources within AMC confirmed that the proposal was positively received, and officials have assured steps toward its implementation.
Debnath made the announcement during a Sunday cycling programme held on June 29 under the aegis of the Fit India Movement in Agartala.
The event featured a vibrant cycle rally that kicked off from the SAI Campus in Badharghat at 6:30 AM. Around 80 participants—including Swachhata Senanis from eight AMC wards, local women, youth health enthusiasts, and members of the Agartala Cycloholics Foundation—actively took part in the rally.
The rally was designed to raise awareness about personal health, public cleanliness, and the benefits of eco-friendly transport. It was formally inaugurated by SAI official Arindam Gogoi and Dr. Bharati Nigam, who praised the dedication of the cleanliness warriors and highlighted the broader goals of environmental and social well-being.
Bicycling: A Simple Step Toward a Greener Future
Beyond being a symbol of fitness and self-reliance, bicycles offer significant environmental advantages. As a zero-emission mode of transport, cycling helps reduce air pollution, lowers the carbon footprint, and eases traffic congestion in urban areas.
According to global studies, if even a fraction of urban commuters switched to bicycles, cities could experience substantial drops in greenhouse gas emissions and particulate matter levels.
Moreover, bicycles require far fewer natural resources to manufacture and maintain compared to motor vehicles, making them a sustainable choice for both individuals and municipalities.
In Tripura, massive constructions – both by the Government agencies and at private initiatives – are underway putting pressure on the pollution and ambience.
According to Member Secretary of Tripura State Pollution Control Board Dr Bishu Karmakar, pollution measured in terms of Air Quality Index shows up-trend during dry seasons indicating moderate pollution (Above 100) in Agartala. However, during rainy season it drops to ‘satisfactory level’. He said, in June 2025, the index was 57 which signified ‘satisfactory’ level.
Explaining further, he said, dust is the main culprit for air pollution and during monsoon or after a downpour, dusts subsided improving the air quality while in dry season, it is just opposite.
To tackle the dry season time dust flying, the Pollution Control Board had already suggested concerned authorities to sprinkle water.
Dr Karmakar also acknowledged integrating cycling into public transport planning could play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and positively contribute to keep pollution in check.
Encouraging bicycle use among cleanliness warriors aligns with the goals of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and Smart Cities Mission, marrying the ideals of cleanliness with climate-conscious action.
The proposed initiative thus not only supports frontline sanitation workers but also strengthens Agartala’s commitment to a healthier, cleaner, and more sustainable future.
