Ganderbal: In a bid to promote awareness about good governance and adventure tourism among youth, forty cyclists from across the Kashmir Valley on Saturday undertook a cycling expedition from Ganderbal to Manasbal.
The event was flagged off from the Clock Tower, Ganderbal, by Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore. It was organised by the Wular–Manasbal Development Authority (WMDA) in collaboration with the District Administration Ganderbal, with technical support from the Jammu and Kashmir Mountain Biking Association (JKMBA) and the Kashmir Mountain Biking Association (KMBA).
Addressing the participants at the flag-off ceremony, the Deputy Commissioner lauded the cyclists for their enthusiasm and determination, particularly for taking part despite adverse weather conditions and continuous rainfall. He expressed hope that such initiatives would continue in the future and appreciated WMDA for promoting adventure-based activities in the region.
Earlier, Chief Executive Officer, WMDA, Ahsanul Haq Chishti briefed the Deputy Commissioner about the cycling rally and highlighted the role of such events in encouraging youth participation in adventure sports and tourism promotion.
The cyclists pedalled along highways, traversing a scenic route before culminating the ride at the picturesque Manasbal Lake. At the concluding समारोह held at the Manasbal Club, the participants were felicitated by the CEO, WMDA. Chishti reiterated WMDA’s commitment to promoting adventure tourism, including water-based activities at Manasbal Lake, and commended the cyclists for their performance under challenging weather conditions.
On the occasion, Rafiq Ahmad was honoured with an Award of Appreciation for successfully completing the prestigious K2K (Kanyakumari to Kashmir) cycling ride, covering a distance of approximately 4,000 kilometres.
Prominent sports and adventure enthusiasts present included Riyaz Wani, President JKMBA; Mushtaq Bhat, President KMBA; Yasir Makdoomi, Secretary, Swim Society; and Syed Tahir, Secretary, Jammu & Kashmir Mountaineering and Adventure Club. Speaking during the ceremony, Riyaz Wani expressed gratitude to the Health Department, Fire and Emergency Services, Police, and the SDRF for their support in ensuring the smooth and safe conduct of the event.
