Cycling Path Connecting Thane to Mumbai Unveiled During Jio Mumbai Cyclothon
The Maharashtra Postal Circle introduced the commemorative stamp titled “Pedaling Towards a Brighter Future.”
On December 18, 2023, Champ Endurance, a prominent proponent of fitness in India, successfully organized the highly anticipated Season 2 of the Jio Mumbai Sustainability Cyclothon. The event, held at R2 ground, BKC, drew over 6000 enthusiastic cyclists, transforming the Bandra Worli Sea Link into a vibrant hub of activity as participants pedaled through longer distances. The overwhelming response from the government, authorities, corporations, cyclists, and citizens highlighted the significance of the event.
A notable milestone, the Jio Mumbai Sustainability Cyclothon became the first event in India to incorporate a timing chip in the cyclothon. Distinguished political figures, including Shri. Deepak Kesarkar (Honourable Guardian Minister of Mumbai), Shri. Ramdas Athavle (Honourable Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment), and Shri. Shrikant Shinde (Member of Parliament, Kalyan), graced the event with their presence.
The event featured various categories, ranging from 10 km to 100 km races, including a 5 km wheelchair race and an Elite Race organized by CFI and CAM for professional cyclists. Notably, participants included visually and hearing impaired individuals cycling alongside their allies as tandem cyclists. Corporate leaders from 50 entities actively participated, aligning with the cause of sustainability. A special donation of 200 cycles was made to facilitate tribal girls’ school commutes, and a ride dedicated to Dabbawalas acknowledged their commitment to sustainable commuting cycles. The event boasted a substantial ₹12 LAKH prize pool, with winners across categories, and organizations with the highest registrations were honored with prestigious trophies.
Key figures such as Shri. Deepak Kesarkar emphasized the need for cycling as a means of commuting, proposing dedicated lanes and jogging tracks to encourage a shift towards zero-emission transport alternatives. Shri. Shrikant Shinde expressed the aim to establish permanent dedicated lanes for cyclists in various areas, and Shri. Ramdas Athavle applauded the practice of incorporating cycling into daily routines.
Krishna Prakash, Additional Director General of Force One, highlighted the event’s role in promoting overall well-being and environmental consciousness. Ravindra Wani, Director of Champ Endurance, emphasized the positive change catalyzed by events like the Jio Mumbai Sustainability Cyclothon.
The event received the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including the General Manager of Western Railways, the Consul General of Israel to Mid-West India, and the Consul General of Sri Lanka. The Maharashtra Postal Circle issued a special stamp titled “Cycling for a Better Tomorrow” to increase public awareness about the sustainable benefits of cycling.
Various organizations, including Mumbai police, MMC, MMRDA, CISF, FORCE ONE, Disaster Management department, and NSG, participated in the event, showcasing support from esteemed forces and organizations. Bollywood actress Simrat Kaur attended the prize distribution ceremony, and the organizers made efforts to be inclusive, with over 50 differently-abled participants. Helmets were provided to Mumbai’s Dabbawalas to enhance their safety during cycle-based deliveries.
The event was sponsored and partnered with organizations such as Jio True 5G, Haldiram, Rostaa, Decathlon, Blue Dart- DHL, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, Lokmat, Radio Mirchi, and many more, highlighting a collaborative effort toward sustainability and fitness. The Jio Mumbai Sustainability Cyclothon proved to be a significant and transformative event, bringing together diverse participants and stakeholders in support of a healthier and more sustainable future.