Balasore: A group of young bikers, under the banner of Balasore Royal Enfield Club, has embarked on a rally to spread awareness about traffic rules and road safety.

Twenty-two members of the club began their journey on their motorcycles on Thursday after it was flagged off by two young industrialists - Sangram Das and Saroj Bodhawnwala. They were cheered and encouraged by people from various walks of life, who wished them best of luck and safe journey. The team will cover around 1,700-km during their rally.

From Balasore, they will go to Nabarangpur via Bhubaneswar, Phulbani, Daringibadi and on the return route they will go to places such as Bhawanipatna and Balangir. "The team members go on bike expeditions to various places every year. On their way, they spread awareness about the traffic safety rules among people," said Sangram Das, an adviser of the club. "They arrange the funds for the rally from their pockets, while a small amount of sponsorship comes from various sources," he said.

After the five-day expedition, the team will return to Balasore on January 16.

The club has 33 members who regularly meet and take part in various social activities.

Round the year, they organise various events, such as blood donation camps. The team reached Daringibadi, the coldest place of the state, on Friday.