Imphal: Cyclist Philem Rohan Singh was given a rousing welcome here after cycling 2,800km from New Delhi carrying the message of a pollution-free India.
Rohan said he was happy to have completed the journey without any misadventures but was quite perturbed by the dilapidated condition of roads, particularly the national highways in Nagaland and Manipur.
He said the journey had taught him several important things. "I have met various people from different walks of life and I have learnt that whatever you do, do it if you have the will and zeal to pursue and achieve it."
Talking about his experience, he said if the Manipur government was really focussed on making the state a tourist destination, the environment, including the condition of the roads, have to be improved so that visitors have a smooth and pleasant journey.
He said he was happy to complete the 2,800km cycle journey and is contemplating another cycle tour from Kashmir to Kanyakumari in the future.
State consumer affairs and public distribution minister Karam Shyam lauded Rohan's effort and expressed happiness that the cyclist's endeavour would contribute something to the development of Manipur by spreading the message of a healthy, clean life and environment.
"In this day, when the youths often fall victim to corruption and drugs, he has made a great contribution to spread the message of good health, green environment and communal harmony," Shyam said.
Rohan started his cycle journey from India Gate in New Delhi on January 8 on the theme Pollution-Free India and reached Manipur on Thursday.
Later, Rohan was flagged off by Shyam on his homeward journey from Kangla to Moirang accompanied by members of Green Revolution Cyclists, where he was welcomed and feted along the way.
Rohan hails from Moirang village in Bishnupur district, around 45km from Imphal.