A Ride to Nandi
Nandi Hills, one of the popular scenic locations outside Bangalore was transformed into a peaceful oasis for a brief period thanks to the initiative of Chikkaballapur MLA Dr. Sudhakar and the cooperation of the local police. For a few early morning hours, about 10 Kms. of road near Nandi hills was closed to all traffic except human powered vehicles and runners. The change was noticeable - the thud-thud of the motor bikes and noisy buses was absent. The whirr of bicycle wheels was a pleasant change and the air was fresh and clear. With a tail wind and cool weather, the first 50 kilometers of the ride from Mekhri Circle was a breeze. The number of cyclists on the highway was definitely higher than the average number on a normal weekend. At the base, policemen welcomed cyclists / runners onto the road to Nandi hills and blocked all other traffic. This was my third ride to Nandi Hills and the changes were apparent - new hotels and a few residential developments. H