Lucknow, Sep 30 (ANI): Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav on Sunday flagged off a bicycle rally in Lucknow to create awareness about healthy lifestyle and fitness and promote cycling culture across the state.
Taking inspiration from countries, like China, France and Great Britain, Lucknow hosted one of the biggest cyclothons held in recent times.
Yadav said that the Samajwadi Party has an association with the cycle, which is the their party symbol.
Asserting that the usage of bicycle cuts across all sections of society, Yadav said: "This is a cyclothon and we have a close association with the cycle. I remember the time when we had to ride bicycles and it is such a thing that does not leave you from your youth to your old age," he said.
"If you notice, all sections of society ride bicycles. Youngsters are fascinated by bicycles, even the working class rides bicycles. There is no section of society that does not use bicycles," he added.
Yadav further said that the cycle promotes unity and brotherhood among all sections of society, apart from raising consciousness about fitness.
"The cycle brings about unity in society in some way or the other. It puts an end to all kinds of disparities. It not only promotes fitness, but you cannot pass on your work to others. If you have to ride a bicycle, you have to do it on your own. You cannot ask anyone else to do it," he said.
Based on the theme 'pedal for a cause', the event saw participation of large number of cycle enthusiasts.
It is a multi-city activity, with Kanpur, Noida, Agra, Meerut and Varanasi to be covered in the itinerary. (ANI)