Raahgiri…free of
traffic chaos
Urban Development – Healthy Life
Raahgiri brings two unique concepts together
i.e. “Raah” means journey towards the final mission and “Giri” is a word
associated with the ideology of Mahatma Gandhi’s Gandhigiri – to have
nonviolence environment. I believe the more explicit meaning of “Raahgiri” is
‘A person’s journey to achieve the goal of transforming city chaos into free
zone from all aspects to have a better life.
Firstly this concept was launched in Gurgaon,
on 17th November, 2013 by the Organizations & activist of the
Gurgaon. It has been inspired by “Cyclovia” a Spanish word, which in English
means “bike path”, to replace automobiles with cycle and having a free road for
people. The said concept has been executed worldwide with different names such
as “Open streets” or “summer streets “. With the zest to make Gurgaon
accessible for its people; make the use of public transport more; to revive
cycling and walking concept work for healthy life. Programme is designed once a
week i.e on Sundays, adults and children are welcomed with open arms, where
they can cycle; skate; do aerobics with fun; street games & dances. At the
first “Raahgiri” day received an overwhelming response, 10,000 participants.
Gradually the participants increased to 90,000 by 8th week. With such terrific response got a picture that the
urban residents wishes to utilize more of public transport if provided with
secure and safe infrastructure.
Raahgiri has moved from Gurgaon
to Delhi, and joined by Navi Mumbai’ Ludhiana and Bhopal being the fifth to
commence Raahgiri. I believe this technique of transformation with tenderness
will lead to a more structured life which will play a key role in urban
development. To see our cities free from traffic chaos, letting down the work
pressures and being ourselves is what “Raahgiri” vision is.
“Raahgiri” has accomplished its
goal of bringing people together and making them enjoy the life in an
innovative way. Journey has just begun and miles to go….