On the occasion of World Bicycle Day, Aligarh Smart City Limited in association with the Department of Physical Education, Aligarh Muslim University conducted a bicycle rally on June 3, 2022, from Ghantaghar to Shamshad Market, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh.
Speaking on the occasion Prof. Syed Tariq Murtaza, Chairperson, Department of Physical Education, Aligarh Muslim University said, “Cycling is mainly an aerobic activity, which means that our heart, blood vessels, and lungs all get a workout. We breathe deeper, perspire and experience increased body temperature, which improves our overall fitness level.”
He also focused on the health benefits of regular cycling which include: increased cardiovascular fitness; increased muscle strength and flexibility; improved joint mobility; decreased stress levels and reduced anxiety and depression. He further assured that the Department of Physical Education would collaborate more such programs with Aligarh Smart City Limited.
Mr. Gaurang Rathi, CEO, Aligarh Smart City, and Municipal Commissioner said that through the ‘Cycles4Change Challenge rally’, an effort is being made to encourage people to use the vehicle less mode of transport. He further emphasized the efforts which are being made to spread awareness among people to keep the earth green.
Mr. Omair Iftikhar, Public Relations Officer, Aligarh Smart City stated that the aim of the bicycle rally was to make people aware of better health and a green environment. Speaking about the event Mr. Iftikhar said that the ‘India Cycles4Change Challenge’ is an initiative of the Smart Cities Mission, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India, to inspire and support Indian cities to implement quick cycling-friendly initiatives in response to COVID-19. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs launched the challenge on June 25th, 2020.
World Bicycle Day is celebrated every year on June 3. The aim of this day is to develop a culture of cycling for basic transportation, commutation, and strengthening physical and mental health. World Bicycle Day recognises the longevity, uniqueness, and versatility of the bicycle, and that it is an affordable, reliable, simple, clean and environmentally fit sustainable means of transport.
Faculty members, research scholars, students, and local residents of Aligarh joined the rally to celebrate the occasion. After completion of the rally, an interaction session was also held with the aim to create awareness about the importance of cycling.
