Tour of Dholavira - Bicycle Tour from Mumbai to Dholavira to Promote Sustainable Travel through Cultural Exploration

Mumbai: An innovative initiative, titled Tour of Dholavira, has been initiated by Smart Commute Foundation (SCF), in order to promote sustainable travel through cultural exploration. The cycling journey, being undertaken by two Indian Cyclists, namely Firoza Dadan, the first Bicycle Mayor of Mumbai and Pankaj Patil, an avid cyclist. T shall cover 1047 kms from Mumbai to Dholavira, Gujarat and will cover the UNESCO sites of Champaner – Ahmedabad Old City – Rani ka Vaav – Dholavira. The Tour will set off on 28th January, 2024 and has been organized with the support of Oil & Gas behemoth, IndianOil Corporation Limited, and a few more partners, this event aims to promote sustainable travel, conscious tourism and cultural exploration.

The prime objective of the Tour of Dholavira is to inspire individuals, organizations and all stakeholders to embrace sustainable living through exploration of the rich cultural tapestry of the region, and the country. This journey aligns with our commitment to eco- friendly practices and responsible tourism.

Two renowned cyclists from diverse backgrounds are set to embark on this transformative journey - each bringing a unique perspective on the intersection of cycling, sustainability, and cultural appreciation. While cyclist Firoza Dadan is the First Bicycle Mayor of Mumbai and Director of Smart Commute Foundation, accompanying her in this journey will be Cyclist Pankaj Patil, an investor banker & an avid cyclist.
Commenting on the challenging cycling tour, Firoza Dadan said, "I am thrilled to be part of the Tour of Dholavira, as promoting sustainable travel is not just a journey for me, but a commitment to a greener and healthier future for the entire world. Cycling is not just a sport but a way of life and a tool for bringing about mindset and sustainability changes."

On the occasion, Pankaj Patil added, “As we pedal through diverse landscapes, we aim to showcase the beauty of the region and encourage everyone to consider sustainable travel choices. The Tour of Dholavira is an opportunity to weave together a narrative of cultural exploration and environmental consciousness."

In his message on behalf of the Prime Sponsor of the initiative, IndianOil Corporation Limited (IOCL), Mr S M Vaidya, Chairman, IndianOil, said, “We are excited about this collaboration and see this initiative as being in sync with many of our other initiatives and programs in the area of Sustainability. We are happy to partner with like-minded organizations like Smart Commute Foundation in order to achieve the shared vision of a greener India and indeed, the world.”

Speaking at the flag off, Mr. Mukesh Ranjan Das, ED (HR), IndianOil, said “It gives me immense pleasure to launch this ride for a cause that is now truly the need of the hour. I wish every success to the cyclists on this arduous journey and am sure together we can achieve our goals of a sustainable future”

About Project Green Mile (PGM):

Project Green Mile is a platform that integrates and promotes the vision of an eco-friendly, pollution free and green future. We believe that by highlighting the urgent need for action through cycling initiatives, we can achieve a sustainable future for the planet. Our dream is to create a vast network of cyclists crisscrossing state lines, not just delivering messages of sustainability, but embodying them through every pedal stroke.

About Smart Commute Foundation (SCF):
Established in 2016, SCF is a not-for-profit organization committed to creating awareness for the larger and critical Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of Environment, Health & Wellness, Clean Air, Active Mobility, Transport Poverty, Women Empowerment and Skill Development.