Pedalling for a ‘greener Thrissur’ as cyclothon rolls through city at dawn

Thrissur woke up to the whirr of bicycle wheels and the promise of a greener tomorrow as more than 100 cyclists assembled at Thekke Gopura Nada in Thekkinkadu Maidan at daybreak on Sunday. With the sun just beginning to light up the city skyline, the riders set off on a cyclothon organised by Indian Oil Corporation Ltd, with the support of The Hindu in School, carrying a clear message of fuel conservation and sustainable living.

The Thrissur Cyclothon forms part of the nationwide SAKSHAM 2025–26 campaign, observed from February 1 to 15. This flagship oil industry’s initiative aimed at promoting conservation of oil and gas and encouraging the adoption of sustainable energy practices across multiple cities. Thrissur District Collector Arjun Pandian flagged off the cyclothon at 6.45 a.m., urging citizens—especially the youth—to embrace cycling as a daily habit.

Mr. Pandian, who regularly participates in cyclothons and marathons, highlighted the importance of cycling for both personal health and environmental well-being. Congratulating the participants, he said such initiatives play a crucial role in building a culture of sustainability.

Organised under the theme “Conserve Oil, Go Green,” the event brought together an inspiring mix of participants, ranging from Class VII students Ashuthosh K. and Ashil Kamar to eminent city-based neurologist Dr. Fiju Chacko.

“Cycling is good for health and it also helps conserve fuel. It can prevent blocks—not just on the roads, but in your heart as well,” Dr. Fiju Chacko said, drawing smiles and applause from fellow cyclists.

The cyclothon also saw the participation of five women riders. Twenty-four-year-old Sophia N.J., who works with a travel agency in Thrissur, said cycling has been part of her life since childhood. “I have been using a cycle since the age of 10. I participate in cyclothons whenever I get the opportunity,” she said.

Led by the ‘Cyclers Thrissur’ group, the cyclists covered a 10-kilometre route that wound through major city landmarks, including the Municipal Corporation Road, Sakthan Bus Stand, KSRTC Road, Poothole, Punkunnam, Patturaikkal, Aswini Hospital Junction, East Fort, and St. Thomas College Road. The ride was completed in about 45 minutes, turning the streets of Thrissur into a moving statement for environmental awareness.

The event concluded with a prize distribution ceremony, celebrating not competition, but a shared commitment to cleaner air, healthier lives, and a greener future for the city.