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Regular-article-logo Tuesday, 01 July 2025

Cyclists promote eco-friendly ride on R-Day - Over 100 participants join expedition, demand more cycle tracks in Bhubaneswar

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OUR CORRESPONDENT Published 29.01.14, 12:00 AM

Bhubaneswar, Jan. 28: Republic Day was celebrated in an innovative manner in the city on Sunday.

Social organisation Bepara Foundation Trust, in association with a well-known bicycle company, organised “Back on Pedals” to promote cycle tracks in Bhubaneswar.

More than 100 participants took part in the rally that began at Jayadev Vihar and concluded at Nandankanan to showcase their enthusiasm towards cycling.

The participants came from all walks of life and sought proper maintenance of the existing cycling tracks by making them free from encroachments.

Shradhanjali Samantaray, former captain of national football team, flagged off the rally.

“It is an encouraging concept and corporate employees should come to their work place at least once in a week on a bicycle and contribute in keeping the city clean and green,” she said.

Many women, mostly homemakers, aspiring models, social workers and entrepreneurs, also took part in large numbers. “It is a cost-effective way of staying fit,” said Roma Dasmohapatra, a woman entrepreneur.

Members of X-Cycles, a student initiative of Xavier Institute of Management, Bhubaneswar (XIMB), who started the concept of “Cycle On Rent”, also took part. Many school and college students showed their skills on mountain bikes by meticulously shifting their body weights and using speed and brakes at tandem. Fellow participants and spectators applauded their stunts.

Many urban-planning experts demanded that state government should build more bicycle lanes along side of the main streets of the city.

The organisers kept reminding the onlookers about the advantages of commuting on bicycles. The volunteers told them that it not only helped in reducing pollution, but also burnt calories and slashed travelling expenses.

“We are aiming to promote a safe, comfortable and eco-friendly mode of communication in the rapidly growing city,” said Bhrugu Mishra, an organiser of the cycling event.

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