Aditya Mehta began the arduous journey from Kashmir on November 7, 2013. During these twenty five days, Aditya has traversed through Jammu, Chandigarh, Delhi, Gwalior, Nagpur etc and covered 2500 kms before reaching Hyderabad on December 1, 2013. He is expected to wrap up the ride by reaching Kanyakumari, another 1100 kms in the next ten days. A large contingent of cyclists from HBC led by HBC Chairman, Mr. D. V. Manohar received him on the city outskirts at Medchal, and ushered him into his home city, as a tribute to the young man’s brave and determined initiative.
Ms. Chandana Khan applauded the effort of Aditya, considering he being physically challenged, an adversity only challenged Aditya to accomplish what even normal people don’t dare to dream, she added. Ms Khan said the Tourism department is encouraging cycling expeditions to tourist destinations in the state as these get publicity and gain popularity. She wanted HBC to organize cycling expeditions to Shameerpet and Singur, to popularize both these destinations. Seventy students of National Institute of Hospitality Management will organize a bicycle rally this year to promote pollution free ride, she said.
Aditya Mehta said this trans India bicycle ride has been a great experience for him, especially the journey from Srinagar to Jammu was the most treacherous with temperatures as low as (- 4) degrees with shooting stones slipping on to the roads. He related an occasion where there was landslide just in front of him and a deep valley on the side of the road, with dexterity he could control his bike and escape the accident. Our roads are dangerous for cyclists as the heavy vehicle drivers don’t respect bicyclists, he added. He expects to complete his ride in 36 days inclusive of four days’ rest, as he is clocking 180 kms a day on an average. He said, he has started a trust for setting up a sports institute for the differently abled, to help other physical challenged to participate in sports and games. He wanted Corporates and philanthropic individuals to come forward and contribute generously to make this dream of his true. Visit www.adityamehta.in for details. He said physically challenged can lead a normal life with support and encouragement. Physically challenged athletes in India have tremendous potential and can bring laurels to the country if provided the right support, he said.
Speaking on the occasion Mr. Manohar said, Aditya is in great spirits, all set to win the laurels and make the city take pride in this unique distinction of his. But more than that, he has subtly enforced the message to the youth of India to opt for bicycle as means of transport and bring down the pollution levels, burgeoning oil import bills and enhance their overall health. Aditya is an inspiration to not only the physically challenged but to everybody.
Mr Jayesh Ranjan said, Aditya is a role model for the youth, who resort to drastic measures like suicide for petite reasons; here is someone who has overcome the greatest adversity.
Mr. NVS Reddy said, all 63 stations of HMR will have bicycle stations to facilitate last mile ride. This will go a long way in reducing carbon levels in the city. Our motto is to make bike ride a fashion statement, he added.
Aditya Mehta is a physically challenged cyclist who is above the knee amputee. He won two Silver Medals for India at the Asian Para Cycling Championship in New Delhi. Aditya was part of the HBC contingent which successfully completed London to Paris cycle challenge in May, 2013. He also rode from Hyderabad to Bangalore in 2012.
