KOCHI: The 750-metre-long walkway-cum-cycle track constructed on Shihab Thangal Road near Panampilly Nagar continues to attract health conscious citizens from across the city. But a few lags in ensuring effective maintenance is discouraging many residents from taking a stroll regularly. Lack of streetlights, absence of dust bins and presence of vendors on the walkway continue to remain a deterrent factor.“I used to come here during late evenings. The street lights are not functioning, and many stretches are dark. The local body or any other agency responsible for the upkeep of the walkway should address the issue,” said Bindi GR, who comes down to the walkway every day.Meanwhile, complaints have been raised about residents throwing garbage on the walkway and cycle tracks. People buy food in paper plates and cups and eat while walking. They end up throwing the waste on the walkway. Every citizen should help authorities in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene, said Sooraj Malol, a resident who uses the walkway regularly.“The walkway is one of the rare instances where the government has shown concern towards the general health of the public. There might be some expenditure towards maintaining the walkway. Otherwise it is one of the cheapest way of ensuring public health. I wish such endeavours are taken up at other places,” he added.The bicycle track and walkway, named, as ‘Street Scape’ was executed by the Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL). The walkway has been part of the metro agency’s effort to promote non-motorized forms of transport like walking and cycling. The concept that city streets are meant not just for cars and buses, but also for people to walk, cycle and to take the air is being promoted by KMRL.

Stay updated with all the Latest Kochi headlines here. For more exclusive & live news updates from all around India, stay connected with NYOOOZ.