Bhubaneswar: Journey of human-powered two-wheeled transport that started in the year 1816 has come a long way amidst changes in motorised transport and super-luxurious travel modes.
This eco-friendly mode of transportation was celebrated across the state on the occasion of World Bicycle Day on Sunday. A number of rallies and workshops were hosted by cycling enthusiasts and groups in various places.
Bhubaneswar Cycling and Adventure Club hosted a bicycle rally from Unit-VI to Nandankanan. A total of 50 cyclists from Bhubaneswar and Cuttack took part in the ride.
Cyclists from age of four years to 65 and above joined the celebrations to spread the message of "Cycling for All". Bicycles of different makes, models and styles were seen in this rally to spread the message of universal brotherhood and world peace.
Sanjeeb Panda, inspector-general of police and a member of the group, said: "As a responsible citizen, everyone should come forward and adopt this means of transport to stay healthy and also to help keep the environment healthy."
Members of We All Ride Bicycle rode to various heritage structures in the Old Town area to promote cycling and heritage.
Piyush Ranjan Rout, a Bhubaneswar-based urban planner, said: "Without a dedicated cycle track in the city, the cyclists always remain vulnerable to accidents. On this day, we want to request the administration to take note of this issue and build cycling tracks," he said.
In Cuttack, a cycle expedition from Anand Bhawan to Naveen Nivas in Bhubaneswar was organised to mark the occasion.