The multiple barricades and traffic snarls leading up to the Buddh International Circuit (BIC) are testimony to the excitement around MotoGP Bharat Grand Prix 2023, taking place this weekend – from September 22 to September 24. “Can I get a parking pass?” has been a common follow-up question to “Do you have passes to the MotoGP?” that I’ve endured in the past few days. Among all that hullabaloo, let’s not forget that today – September 22 – is World Car Free Day, a day that’s almost a complete non-event this year.
Every year, Delhi bears the brunt of pollution in the month of October and November, owing to multiple factors – changing temperatures and wind patterns, stubble burning in neighbouring states and, of course, the ever-increasing vehicular population. World Car-Free Day, although symbolic, highlights how citizens can turn to sustainable modes of transport to do their bit for the environment, such as taking the metro, buses or cycling to work.
No alternate transport choices
At the MotoGP alone, there are expected to be around 22,000 cars this weekend, in addition to the scores of bikes as well. The trouble is connectivity to BIC is dependent only on road transport. Even if you didn’t want to take your own car, the nearest metro station is Knowledge Park II in Greater Noida, which is about 17 km away. The only option is to take a cab from the metro station to BIC. There are restrictions on autorickshaws and only some private shuttle buses operate on this route. Car-pooling is probably the best option one could choose, if you don’t want to take your own car or a cab, not that it’s doing Car Free Day any favours.
Also read: 2023 MotoGP Bharat: All you need to know about Grand Prix of India
Cleaner air this September
This year there have not been any consistent campaigns in the run-up to car-free day, like the ones Delhi did in 2018 and 2019, encouraging citizens to use public transport on the day. This year, thanks to the unseasonal rains and changing weather patterns, Delhi-NCR has been blessed with many relatively clean-air days in September, with the AQI hovering between 40 and 100 on most days. Also, the recent restrictions on construction, clean-up campaigns in the city in the run-up to the G20 Meet on September 9 and 10, and the introduction of more electric buses and greener BSVI petrol and diesel vehicles have definitely played their part.
With a significant clean-up in the air, a little indulgence won’t hurt, especially if you are a motorsports fan. The MotoGP itself will have plenty of two-wheeled action. There are 41 teams and 82 riders taking part in Moto3, Moto2 and MotoGP races. Indian Oil has signed on as the title sponsor for the MotoGP Bharat Grand Prix, which forms round 13 out of 20 in the global 2023 championships. There will be a small bit of the MotoGP Bharat Grand Prix that will be greener than the rest. Ola S1 electric scooters will replace internal combustion engine scooters at the event for various on-ground support activities, including marshalling.
Also read: Ola EVs replace ICE support at MotoGP Bharat
While the adrenaline rush of witnessing all the action at the MotoGP live at the circuit is definitely worth it, if you want to do your bit for the environment, watching the action on-screen on JioCinema or Sports18 from the comfort of your home is always an option.
