Dhaka, Oct. 9 -- A cycle track has opened along a 2.2km stretch of Airport Road in Chattogram, offering cyclists a dedicated space for safer, more environmentally friendly travel.

Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury inaugurated the track on Friday morning, saying more cycling routes would be built across the port city.

Many people commute by bicycle, which also promotes good health, the minister said. He described the new track as a starting point for a wider network where people could cycle for transport, exercise and recreation.

He also urged the city mayor to build walking paths for residents who lack space to walk, including along both banks of canals.

Such facilities were basic civic needs rather than luxuries, Khosru s...