The expedition will see two teams of cyclists starting from opposite ends of India: one from Lakhpat Fort in Gujarat on the western coast, and the other from Bakkhali in West Bengal on the eastern coast. Over the course of 25 days, the cyclists will journey along India's coastal roads, culminating at the Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, on March 31, 2025. This ambitious journey is not only a test of endurance but also a symbol of the CISF's commitment to securing India's critical coastal infrastructure.
India's coastline is home to over 250 ports, including 72 major ones, which handle 95% of the country's trade by volume, including significant oil imports. These ports are vital to the nation's economy, housing refineries, shipyards, and nuclear power plants, all of which need robust security measures. The rally is designed to highlight the importance of securing these coastal areas and their vital infrastructure.
Key Objectives of the Cycling Expedition: • Sensitize Coastal Communities: Educating citizens about threats such as drug smuggling, weapons, and explosives, and encouraging public vigilance. • Strengthen Community-Security Partnerships: Building stronger coordination between local communities and security agencies to create a more secure coastal network. • Instill Patriotism: Inspiring national pride by commemorating the sacrifices of freedom fighters, security personnel, and their families. • Celebrate India's Maritime Heritage: Promoting an appreciation of India’s rich maritime culture, history, and geography, and highlighting the contributions of coastal communities.
Participant Readiness and Inclusivity: A total of 125 CISF personnel, including 14 women, will participate in the expedition, representing a diverse and resilient team. All participants have undergone rigorous training for the physically demanding journey, focusing on endurance, nutrition, safety, and long-distance cycling techniques. The cyclists have also participated in preparatory sessions with professional cyclists to refine their skills in bike maintenance, posture optimization, and efficient cycling techniques.
The event will be virtually flagged off by the Honorable Minister of Home Affairs and Cooperation of India on March 7, 2025. This cycling expedition is expected to garner national attention, serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparedness to protect India’s coastal borders.
Major Events Along the Route: The rally will feature major events at five key locations: Lakhpat Fort (Gujarat), Bakkhali (West Bengal), Gateway of India (Mumbai), Konark (Odisha), and the grand finale at the Vivekananda Rock Memorial (Kanyakumari). These events will include cultural performances, interactive sessions with CISF personnel, and opportunities to learn about the importance of coastal security.
‘The cycling expedition not only symbolizes the CISF's dedication to national security but also serves as a vibrant celebration of India’s coastal heritage and the resilience of its security forces’ said Seema, one of the participants.