Cycling for Real Solutions to Climate Change
The event was a significant milestone in the ongoing fight for climate justice, symbolizing the determination and dedication of Nepalese and Asian citizens to address the global environmental challenges we face. The resounding success of the Cycle Ride serves as a reminder that together, through collective action and genuine commitment, we can pave the way for a sustainable and resilient future.
To mark the occasion of World Environment Month 2023, Digo Bikas Institute (DBI) with the collaborative efforts of the Asian Peoples Movement on Debt and Development (AMPDD), Climate Justice Summer School (CJSS) Alumni, Nepal Cycle Society (NCS) and School of Environment Management and Science(ScheMs) organized a cycle rally, followed by a small gathering event on June 4, 2023, Sunday. The event gathered passionate individuals dedicated to addressing the pressing climate crisis and advocating for real solutions.
Asian Peoples Movement on Debt and Development (APMDD) initiated a series of coordinated biking actions under their flagship event entitled “Pedal for People and Planet” in the year 2022. Therefore, in solidarity with the bike actions held in eight Asian countries: Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Japan, India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, DBI with the support of local organizations in different cities across Nepal, has organized six series coordinated bike actions till now reflecting different themes and causes regarding the worsening influences of climate change and encouraging the younger generations to undertake feasible climate actions.
Likewise, this bike action event was part of the global solidarity “Pedal for People and Planet” gathering individuals with different backgrounds to demand for “Real Solutions To Climate Crisis and raise their voices against the false solutions for the climate crisis. The event was held simultaneously in seven different cities across Nepal: Dhangadi, Biratnagar, Pokhara, Dhulikhel, Bhairahwa, and Hetauda including Kathmandu.
In Kathmandu, the cycle rally was joined by more than seventy participants from different backgrounds, exemplifying the collective will to combat the global challenge of climate change.
With enthusiasm and zeal, the cycle rally stemmed from Jawlakhel, Lalitpur at 8:00 am heading towards Kupondole which concluded at Basantapur, Kathmandu at 9:00 am. The cycle rally witnessed an impressive procession of cyclists, united in their mission to demand real solutions for the climate crisis. The sight of the enthusiastic participants pedaling their way through the city streets was a demonstration of their commitment and determination to effect positive change.
The cyclists on arrival at Basantapur were applauded with cheers and claps. Adding to the vibrancy of the event, a captivating flash mob entertained the public present in the vicinity of Basantapur as a sensitizing action with messages, “no to false solutions” and “real solutions for climate crisis”. Also, face art served as an exciting medium for individuals to express their emotions in an artistic way. Moreover, participants took the opportunity to write heartfelt messages for the Earth, conveying their deep-rooted commitment to preserving the planet for future generations. The success of the event demonstrated the unwavering unity and resilience of the climate activists and concerned citizens who participated in the event.