CYCLE OF REDEMPTION

To help hapless commuters negotiate clogged Indian roads, MyByk aims to integrate cycling into urban transport, especially for first- and last-mile connectivity

- JUMANA SHAH

In the first decades of the 20th century, affordable bicycles transformed thousands of Indian lives—allowing them an unparalleled mobility.

While it has never quite lost its popularity in rural and semi-urban areas, the urban masses have since reposed their faith in mass transport systems, with an aspirational eye out for their first car. But the humble bicycle still had an ace up its chain, as Arjit Soni realised.

Arjit had always wanted a car, and bought one soon after he started practising as a chartered accountant in South Mumbai. But the grinding realities of Indian roads detracted from the pleasure of driving—why, it took 30 minutes to enter the parking lot of his favourite mall, and 45 minutes to exit!