CISF coastal cyclothon reaches Paradip Port, promotes maritime security
Kendrapada: The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) Coastal Cyclothon, an ambitious 6,553-km journey along India’s coastline, reached Paradip Port on Wednesday, marking another milestone in its mission to promote coastal security and environmental awareness.
The East Coast team, comprising 50 cyclists, including eight women, was welcomed at Paradip beach by P L Haranadh, chairman of Paradip Port Trust (PPT), who flagged off their onward journey. The event featured cultural performances, including Odissi dance, Bharatnatyam and demonstrations by CISF units.
“This initiative strengthens the bond between security forces and coastal communities while highlighting the critical role of CISF in protecting India’s maritime infrastructure,” said Dr. Md Shik Abdulla, DIG of CISF NEZ-III Headquarters, Mundali.
Earlier on Tuesday, the team visited the historic Kanika Palace in Rajkanika, Kendrapada district, where they were felicitated by Shivendra Narayan Bhanja Deo, scion of Kanika. The cyclists explored the palace museum, home to invaluable national treasures, including the world’s largest salt-water crocodile skull measuring 99 centimetres.
The expedition, inaugurated by Union home minister Amit Shah on March 7, features two teams cycling along the western and eastern coasts. The East Coast team is covering 2,778 km through West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, concluding at the Swami Vivekananda Memorial in Kanyakumari on March 31.
Throughout their journey, the cyclists are engaging with local communities, fishermen, and industry representatives, promoting the message “Surakshit Tat, Samriddh Bharat” (Secure Coast, Prosperous India). The initiative spans 11 coastal states, emphasizing the importance of maritime security and environmental conservation.
The East Coast team, comprising 50 cyclists, including eight women, was welcomed at Paradip beach by P L Haranadh, chairman of Paradip Port Trust (PPT), who flagged off their onward journey. The event featured cultural performances, including Odissi dance, Bharatnatyam and demonstrations by CISF units.
“This initiative strengthens the bond between security forces and coastal communities while highlighting the critical role of CISF in protecting India’s maritime infrastructure,” said Dr. Md Shik Abdulla, DIG of CISF NEZ-III Headquarters, Mundali.
Earlier on Tuesday, the team visited the historic Kanika Palace in Rajkanika, Kendrapada district, where they were felicitated by Shivendra Narayan Bhanja Deo, scion of Kanika. The cyclists explored the palace museum, home to invaluable national treasures, including the world’s largest salt-water crocodile skull measuring 99 centimetres.
The expedition, inaugurated by Union home minister Amit Shah on March 7, features two teams cycling along the western and eastern coasts. The East Coast team is covering 2,778 km through West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, concluding at the Swami Vivekananda Memorial in Kanyakumari on March 31.
Throughout their journey, the cyclists are engaging with local communities, fishermen, and industry representatives, promoting the message “Surakshit Tat, Samriddh Bharat” (Secure Coast, Prosperous India). The initiative spans 11 coastal states, emphasizing the importance of maritime security and environmental conservation.
