Cycling, like other moderate physical activities, is extremely beneficial. People nowadays prefer cycling short distances and use it as a means of physical exercise.
Digital Desk: Every year, June 3 is celebrated as "World Bicycle
Day." The United Nations chose the day to celebrate "the uniqueness,
longevity, and versatility of the bicycle" in April 2018.
World Bicycle Day: History
Professor Sibilski wanted an official World Bicycle Day to
celebrate the versatile mode of transportation that has served billions across
the globe across diverse social classes. The modern bicycle was introduced late
in the 19th century. The humble bicycle can be found in six of the seven
continents and nearly all countries worldwide.
World Bicycle Day: Theme
The UN marks and celebrates international days and weeks to
spread awareness about special causes or bring about the social will to address
global issues. Bicycle Day, in particular, increases awareness about the
benefits of using a bicycle. According to the UN, it is a "sustainable
transport system that promotes economic growth and reduces inequalities while
bolstering the fight against climate change."
The global body also states that the use of the bicycle is key
to achieving 13 of the sustainable development goals that it has set.
World Bicycle Day: Celebration and significance
On this day, individuals should take part in and promote
initiatives to organize bicycle rides at the national and local levels. This is
to be done to develop a culture of cycling, which will then lead to improved
physical and mental well-being. Bicycles should also be promoted to promote
good health, prevent disease, promote tolerance, mutual understanding, and
respect, and facilitate social inclusion and a culture of peace.
Cycling, like other moderate physical activities, is extremely
beneficial. People nowadays prefer cycling short distances and use it as a
means of physical exercise.
The use of the bicycle was at its peak during the lockdown days,
and we observed that almost everyone bought a cycle to ride during those days
when everything was shut down. The bicycle sale shot up, and there were an
increasing number of peddlers seen on the roads. Popularity was at its peak
during this period.
In today's world, when the air conditioning is degrading day by
day, it is high time we shifted our mode of transport and used bicycles more
since they are an eco-friendly mode of transportation. When the situation is
back to normalcy, we can see people using their vehicles for transport. Also,
public transport can be used instead of opting for individual cars. It provides
an affordable and sustainable means of transportation for the urban poor. It is
an equitable, environmentally sustainable, and healthy mode of transportation
for which cities should provide adequate infrastructure.
Health experts suggest that riding a bicycle daily can lower the
risk of any disease and keep us fit.
Celebrities and Fitness Models also promote the use of the
bicycle for physical fitness and as an alternative mode of transport.
A few months back, Milind Soman completed a 1,000 km-long 'Green
Ride' on a bicycle to raise awareness against air pollution.
Celebrities who love cycling are Ranbir Kapoor, Ayushman
Khurana, Sara Ali Khan, Daisy Shah, and Divya Khosla Kumar, some others on the
list.
It is high time we understand the importance of riding a Bicycle
and accept it as a mode of environmentally friendly transport and has a lot of
health benefits.
