IIT Hyderabad celebrates world bicycle day with campus rally
Hyderabad: The Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH) celebrated World Bicycle Day with a large-scale cycling rally that brought together more than 200 students, faculty members, staff, and campus residents. The event coincided with the institute receiving national recognition from the Fit India Movement as a Model Campus under the FIT India Vehicle-Free Campus Initiative, highlighting its efforts to promote sustainable mobility and healthier lifestyles.
The recognition was formally conferred by Fit India in Hyderabad on June 7. According to the institute, the award acknowledges its initiatives aimed at reducing dependence on motor vehicles, encouraging eco-friendly transportation, and fostering a culture of fitness and environmental responsibility within the campus community. As part of the World Bicycle Day celebrations, IITH organised a cycling rally under the nationwide “Sundays on Cycle” campaign of the Fit India Movement. The rally began at the SNCC Sports Complex and covered a route across the institute’s sprawling 600-acre campus. Participants cycled along the same path used during the IITH Half Marathon, promoting cycling as a practical, affordable, and environmentally sustainable mode of transportation.
World Bicycle Day is observed globally to highlight the benefits of cycling for health, mobility, and environmental sustainability. Through initiatives such as “Sundays on Cycle,” the Fit India Movement has sought to encourage citizens to adopt active lifestyles while contributing to efforts aimed at reducing pollution and promoting greener modes of transport. The recognition received by IIT Hyderabad reflects a series of measures implemented on campus to encourage sustainable mobility. The institute has actively promoted cycling and walking while working to reduce reliance on motor vehicles within its premises. These efforts are part of a broader focus on environmental sustainability and community well-being.
Prof. B.S. Murty, Director of IIT Hyderabad, said the institute views physical fitness, environmental responsibility, and academic excellence as interconnected goals. He noted that cycling not only contributes to individual health but also supports efforts to lower carbon emissions and create a cleaner campus environment.
Dr. Himanshu Joshi, Faculty In-Charge of Sports at IITH, said the enthusiastic participation in the rally reflected growing awareness among students and staff about the importance of fitness and sustainable living. He added that the institute’s infrastructure and open spaces provide a conducive environment for promoting outdoor activities and healthy habits. Over the past few months, IIT Hyderabad has strengthened its sports and wellness initiatives through a range of events, including cycling campaigns, marathons, cyclathons, and the recently hosted Inter IIT Staff Sports Meet. These activities have encouraged participation from students, faculty, staff, and members of the wider community.
The institute continues to organise weekly “Sundays on Cycle” events, creating opportunities for regular physical activity while promoting cycling as a sustainable transport option. The initiative aligns with IITH’s broader vision of fostering wellness, environmental awareness, and responsible citizenship.
