‘Cycle Day’ was organized by Yelahanka United Environment Association (YUVA) in partnership with Directorate of Urban Land Transport, Government of Karnataka, BCOS, Praja RAAG, EMBARQ and ESAF with support from Bangalore Police (Traffic and Law & Order) and BBMP in Yelahanka on 2nd August 2015, from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
This Cycle Day was dedicated to the memory of Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. Cyclists observed two minutes silence as mark of respect to the late President of India before the start of the cycle rally. Dr Kalam has a residence in Kendriya Vihar Apartment which overlooks the Yelahanka Lake.
The cycling route was around 8 km, on the streets of Yelahanka Old Town and around the 350-acre Yelahanka Lake. Over 2000 people participated in this event with great enthusiasm and they were cheered along the way as they rode on the streets and inside the lake.
The objective of the cycle day campaign is to raise awareness about the positive aspects of cycling and to push this vehicle into the forefront, not only as a recreational activity, but as a legimiate mode of transport in its own right. Regularly held at different spots in the Yelahanka area, the campaign points to the environmental, economic and health aspects of cycling, and has helped in a significant increase in the number of cyclists on Yelahanka roads, thus contributing to lowering the greenhouse gas emissions and improving the environment.
Dr Lieutenant Mune Gowda, NCC, after the event said, “Today over 500 NCC and NSS college students participated in this environment friendly event. These campaigns help change the behavior of the citizens towards choosing the most efficient transport mode at the last mile. The main obstacles are lack of bicycle lanes, traffic safety issues for cyclists, and lack of safe parking facilities. Heard that DULT and YUVA are working on cycle paths in Yelahanka and hope it becomes a reality soon.”
Ms Manjula, a resident of Ward 1, Yelahanka said, “The event was well organized with traffic management throughout the route by local police. The children thoroughly enjoyed the outing on the streets and lake. Conducting cycling around the lake is a great initiative which helps in lake rejuvenation with local citizens’ participation.”
Kite flying drew a large crowd with colourful large designer kites flown by children and elders. Kites were sold at the venue and children were taught to string and fly the kites.
Karnataka’s rich janapada culture was on view with Huli Vesha performance by the rural folk artists.
Thanks to Mr Jagadeesh Giri, Jt Secy, YUVA for the information and pictures.