Srinagar, Oct 29 (HS): Thousands of people took part with great enthusiasm on Thursday in the cycle race titled ‘Pedal Through Paradise’, organised in Srinagar by the Jammu and Kashmir Police under the ‘Fit India’ campaign.

The race drew participants of all ages, from young children to the elderly, and persons with disabilities also took part. Despite the morning cold in Kashmir, the participants’ enthusiasm was remarkable.

Participants described the race as highly beneficial for mental as well as physical health, and urged the authorities to hold such events in the future too.

One participant told media that cycling is highly beneficial for mental health as well as physical health. He said that if someone is suffering from a mental illness or has fallen into drug addiction, cycling can help them get rid of it. He said various kinds of illnesses are spreading in Kashmir, and activities such as exercise and cycling can help in tackling them.

A participant named Mohammad Tahir said that people, whatever field of life they belong to, should set aside at least half an hour for activities such as cycling. Health is the greatest blessing, he said, and every kind of progress is possible through it. He said that such events by the J&K Police and the administration are of great importance and should continue in the future as well.

At the end of the race, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha presented awards to the winners. In a post on social media, he said: “I commend the Jammu Kashmir Police for combining security with social commitment through such initiatives. Let us together empower youth, promote sports, build a drug-free society, and advance peace, progress and prosperity for all.”

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Hindusthan Samachar / Zahoor Hussain Bhat