Initiatives to Popularize Cycling Fail to Take Off

Despite initiatives by Iran's Department of Environment and anti-air pollution campaigners, the use of bicycles and related projects has failed to take off across the country.
As a cheap means of transportation, cycling is regaining its 19th-century status because of the environmental challenges facing the world, such as high air pollution and global warming, which are posing threats to people’s lives.
However, compared to the population of Iranian metropolises, the number of cyclists is very low despite the heavy traffic, high level of air pollution and the risk of Covid-19 infections in public means of transportation. 
Officials in Tehran, the capital city, which has paradoxically pioneered the establishment of cycling lanes and amenities, no longer appear enthusiastic about promoting the eco-friendly mode of transportation.
Parviz Sarvari, the deputy head of Tehran City Council, told YJC, “Expansion of cycling is an ideal plan for a polluted city like Tehran, but it is not a priority.”