These cycles, says the NGO, would help nature lovers explore the forest and wildlife more closely.

“Many nature lovers who visit these sanctuaries are unable to go deep into the forest since their vehicles are not permitted beyond a certain point. Also, one cannot cover such long distances on foot. Therefore, the forest department can maintain a fleet of cycles which can be used by visitors to explore the wildlife without causing any harm to flora and fauna,” said Punam Singavi, a member of Hariyali and the wildlife warden appointed by the Thane forest department.

“If cycles are allowed into the forest, visitors can have a better access to wildlife and it would also help maintain peaceful environment in the forests. Besides, there will be zero pollution,” added Singavi.

Though the entry of vehicles in the forest has been banned, a few vehicles were still used to ferry the officials and a few visitors. “Now we have completely stopped the use of vehicles,” said Deputy Conservator of Forest (DCF) Sarfaraz Khan, who is in charge of the three sanctuaries — Tansa, Phansad and Karnala.

Welcoming the move, Singavi said volunteers of the NGO will collect the cycles and will repair them before handing them over to the forest department.