As many as 130 cyclists from 20 different cities across the country, participated in the ‘Heritage Ride’ that was flagged off from the historic Ridge on Friday, to sensitise the masses for a clean and green Shimla.
The event to raise environment awareness is also aimed to encourage cycling amongst the citizens.
“The 8 kms long ‘Heritage Ride’ first ever initiative is part of the main cycling event of 6th Edition of Hero Mountain Biking (MTB) Shimla which is organised by HASTPA (Himalayan Adventure Sports and Tourism Promotion Association),” said HASTPA, president Mohit Sood.
Shimla has been facing exasperation due to increasing motor vehicles, absence of parking spaces and long traffic snarls has become common sight these days, he said, adding that sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives of transit are the need of the hour to decongest the roads of Shimla and revive its old charm.”
The motive is to push the citizens of Shimla, especially the youth towards a greener and healthier lifestyle, under the campaign, “Green Shimla, Healthy Shimla of HASTPA which will focus to raise awareness and benefits of cycling, said he.
He disclosed that this year the event has witnessed highest number of participation of 130 riders which also includes the highest women participation as well.
The main cycling race, two day event will commence on April 15, from Woodville Palace, Shimla and conclude on April 16 at Shimla Hotel Woodville.
The race covering a distance of 120 kms with an elevation gain of 3,500 m, will transverse through single tracks, river beds, jeep tracks, forest tracks and some beautiful and picturesque parts of the Shivalik range.
The route includes Woodville Palace Shimla, Bulia, Ashwani Khad, Janed Ghat, Bhadhli, Chail, Sadhupul, Chail, Koti, Chini Bunglow, Dhalli and Shimla.