The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in unprecedented bicycle sales in India, as more and more people try to avoid public transportation for fear of contracting the virus. But the boom could be short-lived.
The telephone in Tarun Gupta’s bicycle shop has been ringing non-stop all day. As he deals with customers, a line forms outside. “Business is booming, but the rush has become mentally exhausting,” he said. Like other parts of the world, India has experienced a boom in bicycle sales during the coronavirus pandemic.
Although most Indian cities are not bicycle-friendly, there has been a sharp increase in recreational cycling during the pandemic as people try to beat cabin fever during lockdowns, get exercise, or avoid commutes on stuffed public transport.
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Gupta and his partner have been running a shop selling high-end bicycles and accessories in a posh South Delhi neighborhood for four years.
Business suffered during India’s nationwide lockdown announced in March, but he has more than made up for it since the easing of restrictions.
