More than 5,000 Pune citizens pedal and walk for fitness and a pollution-free city

Pune, 14th September 2026: More than 5,000 citizens participated in a cycling rally and family walkathon organised in the city on Sunday to promote a healthy lifestyle and a pollution-free Pune. The events, ‘Pune on Pedals’ and ‘Pune Family Walkathon’, were organised by the Ramabai Ambedkar Mahila Sashaktikaran Kendra on the concept of Rajya Sabha MP Prof Dr Medha Kulkarni to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday.

Pune police commissioner Amitesh Kumar and Kulkarni flagged off the rally from Balshikshan Mandir in Mayur Colony. The route covered Karve Road, Deccan Gymkhana and the Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj statue before concluding at Balshikshan Mandir. As part of the initiative, 150 bicycles were distributed free of cost to underprivileged and needy students. All participants were presented with medals, certificates and T-shirts.

Mountaineer Ganesh Agashe, kho-kho coach Pushkar Barve, kho-kho award winner Rakhi Barve, Ironman competition winners Kunal and Minal Kashikar, retired police officer Vishnu Tamhane, climbers Rudra Karandikar and Kia Revankar, sports photographer Nitin Khanolkar, and ultra-cycling winners Prashant and Medha Jog were felicitated during the event.

Speaking at the event, police commissioner Amitesh Kumar said citizens must contribute to realising the dream of a developed India. “Through Fit India, citizens should prioritise health and fitness and actively participate in environmental conservation. Along with developing infrastructure for the country’s progress, there is a need to promote cycling culture through cycle plans in the coming years,” he said. Kumar added that the police were committed to maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of citizens and women.

In her introductory remarks, Kulkarni said the ‘Pune on Pedals’ cycling rally had entered its seventh year. “This initiative is important for a healthy lifestyle and a pollution-free Pune. Prime Minister Modi is working towards the comprehensive development of the country. This event is being organised as a gesture of gratitude for his work,” she said.

Former corporator Jayant Bhave and Vishram Kulkarni were among those present. Bhave conducted the proceedings. Nilesh Misal, Jhanvi Joshi, Yamini Mathkari, Ninad Patwardhan, Girish Dongre, Kalyani Tokekar, Amit Page, Shailesh Sancheti, Prakash Tapkir, Amey Kokate, Lokesh Rane, Dinesh Munde, Dipali Mohite and Tejas Gupta worked for the success of the event.