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Cycle of peace |
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By: Chetan R |
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Date:
2008-10-25 |
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Place: Bangalore |
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 Thirty students will pedal all the way to Pakistan on their bicycles, calling for peace between the two countries. They will also use the opportunity to promote cycling.
An initiative of Bornfree Art School, a school for street children, the expedition, Peace By Cycle, is a 2,800-km ride that will begin on November 1. The 30-day expedition, from Bangalore to Lahore, will pass through 100 cities in eight states, asking both countries to stress on peace initiatives. They are expected to reach Lahore after travelling over 100 km a day.
Last year, the students had gone on a history expedition, cycling through the state to save historical monuments in Bangalore.
"It's a unique expedition," said John Devraj, the school's founder, "Our subject is peace between India and Pakistan, as it has been an unsolved question for decades."
Survivors of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings will flag off the expedition. The students, besides meeting the President of India and taking her message to Pakistan, will also carry out a signature campaign in all cities, roping in other students. They will call on Pakistani leaders too.
"We expect many more students to join the campaign," said Niji Makayama, organiser of Peace by Cycle.
Other message
The students will also promote the use of bicycles - their health and environmental benefits. "It's a unique campaign, as it is mix of adventure and social cause," said Dhanraj.
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