IMPHAL, November 26: A team of the Manipur Cycle Club was flagged off for Keibul Lamjao from Hotel Imphal today as part of the ongoing Sangai Festival by Tourism Director Chitra Devi.
Around 20 cyclists left for Keibul Lamjao national park carrying the message of a greener environment and promoting cycling.
Among the cyclist was Sougaijam Bidyalaksmi, a member of MCC and who had recently concluded a northeast tour with the objective of spreading awareness on crimes against women and children. She along with the riders were accorded a warm welcome at Bishnupur bazar by chairperson of Bishnupur Municipal Council, Laishram Lolindro and other staff members.
Further at Moirang, a team led by M Shivaraj, M Sarat, K Charanjit and team of Blooming Moirang organized a reception during which the cyclists were given an opportunity to water the flowers at Ima Keithel at Moirang Bazar.
One may also note that this is the only event during this festival where one gets a tour of the home of the Sangai deer. The cyclist participating in the tour will cycle around the Loktak area for the next two days.
MCC has been participating in the festival for the last three years to drive home the message that cycle tourism is a possibility in the state and that with cycles one can travel either to the hills or in the valley with very little cost and impact. On November 30, MCC will again conduct a city tour where participants will be able to visit culturally and historically significant sites in Imphal.