21-05-2025
2 women cyclists on Guinness goal cross Dibrugarh
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Dibrugarh: Two women cyclists, determined to set a Guinness world record by covering 4,000 km on a tandem bicycle from India's easternmost point to its westernmost edge, crossed Dibrugarh on Tuesday.
Dr Meera Velankar, a scientist and a previous Guinness record holder in cycling from Bengaluru, and Dr Manisha Waghmare, an ophthalmologist, from Maharashtra's Ratnagiri began their journey on May 15, when they were ceremonially flagged off by Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) personnel from Arunachal Pradesh's Kibithu, India's easternmost road-connected village.
The duo's journey will culminate in Gujarat's Koteshwar.
"This bicycle journey is more than just breaking a record. We want to demonstrate that women can achieve anything, while highlighting the importance of sustainable transportation and physical fitness. We've received overwhelming support from people who understand that this journey symbolises breaking barriers," said Dr Velankar.
Their route will take them through seven Indian states, each presenting a unique geographical and climatic challenge.
The tandem bicycle, requiring exceptional coordination and synchronised effort between both the riders, add another layer of complexity to their demanding journey.
Dr Waghmare emphasised the environmental message behind their expedition. "In an era of increasing pollution and climate change concerns, we hope our journey on a zero-emission vehicle inspires people to consider cycling as a viable alternative for transportation," she added.
The attempt has garnered significant attention from local communities along the route. In Dibrugarh, local residents gathered to cheer the cyclists as they made their way through Dibrugarh town, known for its sprawling tea estates and colonial-era architecture.
Beyond the physical challenge, the two cyclists have been using their platform to promote women's empowerment across rural India.
As they continue their westward trek from Dibrugarh, the duo faces approximately 3,300 km remaining to reach Koteshwar, Gujarat. Weather forecasts suggest challenging conditions ahead, but both women remain optimistic about completing their historic journey within their targeted timeframe.
