BHUBANESWAR: Tour De Kalinga, the longest-ever community cycling tour in the state, concluded after a journey of 1300 km in 13 days. The concluding ceremony was held at Royal Suite hotel here Thursday.
This tour was an initiative of Roots of Odisha foundation and was supported by CRESPAI. On the occasion of its concluding day, the organisers conducted a public media and stakeholder engagement to deliberate on the social issues our society is entangled with. The participants also discussed their experiences gained through pubic interactions during their community engagements and expeditions held at various places.
Co-founder and CEO of Nagarro, founder of Rahagiri Manas Fuloria had earlier said, “This initiative attempts reduction in usage of cars and increase in the usage of eco friendly locomotive vehicles. Cycling is truly crucial for India as our country faces issues such as air pollution, hazardous diseases and overcrowding among others.”
Earlier, the fourth edition of Tour de Kalinga 2018 was flagged off by the Governor of Orissa Prof. Ganeshi Lal December 8, 2018. The tour comprised 30 cyclists representing the states of Maharashtra, Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Bihar and Odisha. The whole team also included a variety of professionals like doctors, lawyers, chartered accountants, journalists, IITians, army, navy, air force and vigilance officers and sportsmen among others.
“It was very successful ride. I experienced a lot of things during this tour. There are some beautiful places which needs development. This can enhance the tourism potential of the state. The people of Odisha are quite responsive and affectionate,” said Yogendra Singh, a participant.
