BHUBANESWAR: More than 200 organisations comprising educational institutions, NGOs, corporates, cycling clubs and Government employees will join Konark International Cyclothon (KIC), which is scheduled on November 29.
The Cyclothon titled ‘Tour de Konark’ aims at promoting cycling as a culture in tourist destinations across the State and highlighting health benefits of cycling.
The cycling tour is to create awareness on effects of climate change, protection of ecology and promotion of cycling as an alternative mode of communication, trustee of Roots of Odisha Foundation (a partner in the event) Sudhir Dash said.
The route from Konark to Puri on the Marine Drive is surrounded by beautiful flora and fauna. The 40 km stretch is home to many endangered plant and animal species. Besides, the eco-system here has abundant resources which sustain the livelihood for fishermen, farmers and people employed in tourism sector, Dash added.
KIC has mobilised volunteers from across the globe, students from the State and National Universities for the event and has received a go-ahead from the Department of Tourism and Sports, KIC founder Rashmi Ranjan Parida said.
Brand ambassadors of the event will be Arjuna awardee Minati Mohapatra, Rajya Sabha member Dilip Tirkey, filmmaker Nila Madhaba Panda, Lok Sabha member Siddhanta Mohapatra, sand artists Sudarshan Patnaik and Manas Sahoo, scuba diver Sabir Bux and mountaineer Joga Byasa Bhoi.