Guwahati Cyclothon scripts a success story

GUWAHATI, March 13: Amidst hustle and bustle of the city characterized by honking vehicles, pollution and accidents an event upholding environment, health and safety as its three priorities took place on Sunday. People of all ages, including children, took part in Guwahati Cyclothon, 2017 at Veteriry ground at Khapara in the city to showcase their solidarity for the noble cause of keeping the environment green, air cleaner, reducing traffic congestion, and staying fit.

“Sadly though, but it is not new that Guwahati deals with the problem of traffic congestion, every day, every minute. The city which was once considered as one of the hill stations and a place where one can spend his/her days without switching on fans or ACs, is now grappling with the impact of climate change. There are more vehicles on the roads. The weather is hotter than before, and yes, polluted too. In such a scerio, a bicycle is a smart mode of commutation.

“Unlike motor vehicles, it doesn’t emit air pollutants; doesn’t honk ruthlessly; doesn’t create any traffic congestion as it needs less space to move freely; and like a cherry on the top it keeps one’s body and mind healthy.” This is what Jubee Baruah, the mastermind behind the event and the founder of Everything Outdoor, has been trying to make a shout-out to the people.

Guwahati Cyclothon, organized by Everything Outdoor, was categorized into four categories: Amateur Ride (no age or distance), 13-16 years (12 km); 17 years and above (22 km) and Pro Zone (50 km). It was open for all. The arrangements for cycle repair stations, medical booth, rest stops, refreshments, live music, and more were structured.

Around 6.30 am, the flag off was done by Puru Gupta, the Commissioner of Transport. Other guests for the event were Bibekanda Das, Additiol Deputy Commissioner of Police and Anita Verma, Sr. Advocate, Gauhati High Court. Gupta remarked, “We should continue doing this to bring the needed change in the city. It’s a wonderful experience to see so many cycling enthusiasts in the city to support the event”.

Jaishish Dutt Sohtun, a 9-year-old kid who gave the adults a tough competition in the cycling, attempted and completed Pro Zone route of 50 km. Juree Dutta was the only woman to attempt and complete the Pro Zone cycling. Kudos! In fact, kudos to all those who could wake up early in Sunday morning to revive the spirit of Go Eco, Go Cyling.

The main objective of Guwahati Cyclothon is to bring people together by bracing their childhood habit of cycling, and to make them understand that it is a sustaible act because by cycling not only one stays healthy, but also retains the charm of the ture while decreasing the daily traffic hassles.

The event was a grand success. It was sponsored by Vodafone, Radiant, Hero Cycles, Pratidin Time, Axomiya Protidin, E Raaja (electric rickshaw), Chisel, Madmax, Eventours, By the Way, Southcoast Restaurants, Eastern Green Pictures, Zoom Car, Anuradha Theatre, Radio Gupshup, and The Sentinel being the print partner.