From Punjab to Bangalore, he pedals for a green cause

BANGALORE: Cycling 2,800 km all the way from Punjab to Bangalore - all for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
As an air-conditioner mechanic back in Ludhiana, Sanjay Verma knew very well how much the environment was being polluted. The 27-year-old, along with a group of friends, launched, 'Satya Malhotra', a local NGO in Ludhiana. "We promote organic farming, plantation and cycling to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions,'' he said after a 21-day cycling expedition which reached Bangalore on May 5.
Sanjay started his solo journey from Ludhiana on April 14, to convey the 'go green' message. He travelled 2,800 km spanning Punjab, Haryana, New Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and finally reached Karnataka on May 5. It took Sanjay 21 days to cover the distance. On the way he held a rally in Ambala, spreading messages like "Save water, save life" and "Clean Ambala, green Ambala". The rally drew over 150 like-minded people who gathered to support the cause.
"Although I faced obstacles like extreme weather conditions, my journey was great. I learned survival techniques and met a lot of people on the way, those who shared my concern about degradation of the environment,'' Sanjay said.
Once back home, Sanjay hopes to start a cycling club to spread awareness and garner the support of youth.
--- Adiba Taj and Jentanita Robert