Pedal Through Paradise Cycle Race Concludes in Srinagar
Srinagar, October 29: The 'Pedal Through Paradise' cycle race, organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, concluded in Srinagar on Thursday with a closing ceremony addressed by Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat.
More than 3,000 cyclists participated in the race, which received roughly 5,000 entries across different categories. The categories included children and participants above 45 years of age, along with women, open category entrants and other groups.
At the ceremony, the DGP said that the sacrifice of martyred police personnel continues to inspire the force to promote peace and engage young people in positive activities such as sports. He paid tribute to the martyrs and announced a 'Shaheed Smarak Football and Hockey Tournament' in their honour.
The event was conducted under the 'Fit India' initiative, which aims to promote fitness and a healthy lifestyle across the population. Highlighting the value of cycling, the DGP said it reflects fitness and also helps instil discipline. He added that sports can help young people deal with issues such as mobile phone addiction and excessive screen time.
DGP Prabhat described young people as a major national asset whose aspirations and creative involvement will contribute to the country's progress. He said the police force is determined to work with the youth and help society address drug abuse and gambling.
He also said that police, working with the administration, are holding district-level sports activities to encourage greater youth involvement. He pointed to the strong public response to the Kashmir Marathon and Jashn-e-Dal as evidence of growing interest in such events.
The DGP said several upcoming sports events will be held, including the Shaheed Smarak Football and Hockey Tournament, aimed at honouring the sacrifice of police martyrs and encouraging young people to play sports.
The race began at the Police Golf Course on Boulevard Road in Srinagar and moved through Harwan and Foreshore before finishing at Nagbal. Traffic restrictions were imposed along the route, and commuters were advised to use alternative roads to avoid inconvenience.