Govt promoting adventure tourism in big way: Sukhu
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today said that state government was actively promoting adventure sports, which could help promote tourism in a big way. He flagged off the 12th edition of the MTB Himalaya Cycle Race organised by the Himalayan Adventure Sports and Tourism Promotion Association in collaboration with the Himachal Tourism, Heatrex Tyres, Cycling Association of HP from The Ridge in Shimla.
The race would pass through Prologue-Heritage Ride (Ridge-IIAS-Ridge) and Kufri-Chail Shimla-Summerhill-Potters Hill and culminate on May 18. Over 100 cyclists from across the country, including national champions and worldwide elite riders, are participating in the event.
Sukhu said that such events go a long way in showcasing the rich traditions, heritage and culture of Himachal Pradesh to the world. He added that “cycling has a lot of significance in today’s world, as it promotes good health, green environment, non-motorised non-polluting means of transport and a great recreation adventure fitness and sporting activity”.
He said, “The government has issued orders for the identification of routes in various locations of the state for the development of cycling tracks and some of these will be constructed in Shimla.” He added that an ice-skating rink was being constructed in Shimla at a cost of Rs 37 crore and it would further boost tourism activities. Additionally, the Circular Road in Shimla was being widened to help address the problem of traffic congestion in the city
The Chief Minister said that the government had set a target of making Himachal Pradesh a green energy state by March 31, 2026. “In the coming years, Himachal Pradesh will become a pioneering state in green hydrogen production in the country. A one MW capacity green hydrogen plant is being set up in collaboration with Oil India Limited at Nalagarh in Solan district,” he added.
World champion Lakshay Jangid presented a cycle show while the Army band gave a performance. Earlier, Chairman of the Himalayan Adventure Sports and Tourism Promotion Association Mohit Sood welcomed the Chief Minister and thanked him for sparing time to inaugurate the event. MLAs Harish Janartha and Sudarshan Babloo, Shimla Mayor Surender Chauhan, Deputy Mayor Uma Kaushal, councillors and other dignitaries attended the event.
