Record-Breaking Crowd: Over 79,000 Environmental Enthusiasts Join Historic River Cyclothon
Pimpri-Chinchwad , 23 November –
To spread the message of keeping the Indrayani River clean, the “River Cyclothon 2025” held on Sunday saw an overwhelming response. More than 79,000 citizens joined the event, while over 51,300 cyclists rode to support river conservation. The initiative, conceptualised by MLA Mahesh Landge, drew massive participation from residents across Pimpri-Chinchwad.
This year’s Cyclothon brought together the region’s Warkari tradition and environmental awareness in a unique way. The highlight of the event was a special presentation titled “Shiv–Shambu Yashogatha,” which showcased the valour of the Maratha era, Maharashtra’s cultural heritage and the message of river conservation.
The Cyclothon began at 6 am on Sunday, November 23, from the “Statue of Hindu Bhushan” — the world’s tallest memorial of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Now in its ninth year, the Cyclothon created history with unprecedented turnout. Performances including Ranmard Shiledar parade, traditional martial arts, dhol-tasha and torch dance brought alive the spirit of the Shivrajya era. Loud chants of Shiv–Shambu echoed across the venue.
PCMC commissioner Shravan Hardikar, former mayor Rahul Jadhav, Nitin Kalje, BJP city president Shatrughna Kate, directors from Dhanshree Hospital and several organisations, representatives and guests were present. The event was jointly organised by the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, Avirat Shramdaan Sanstha, Cycle Mitra, WTE Foundation and Maheshdada Sports Foundation.
Thousands of citizens, cyclists and Shiv devotees came together to pay tribute to Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj at his grand memorial. The “Shiv–Shambu Yashogatha” segment stood out as the key attraction.
AI System Confirms Record Participation
While 38,000 cyclists had registered online, advanced AI counting technology used by the WTE Foundation detected far higher participation on-ground. Using computer vision and deep learning, the report confirmed the presence of more than 51,300 cycles and close to 78,900 people. A large number of cyclists joined without prior registration, which made this turnout even more remarkable.
Chief coordinator Dr Nilesh Londhe said that the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation and acting commissioner Shravan Hardikar played a crucial role in organising the event. Various government departments, police teams and schools also contributed to its success.
Three Routes, Thousands of Riders
Participants rode across three routes of 5 km, 15 km and 25 km.
Dr Londhe added, “Shiv–Shambu Yashogatha is more than a series of performances. It inspires us to protect our history, culture and nature. We hope this message encourages more people to join conservation efforts.”
Mahesh Landge, MLA, Pimpri-Chinchwad
“Indrayani is our cultural lifeline. It is time we come together for her cleanliness, keeping aside all differences. The state government has already approved the river improvement project, and that is a major achievement. The participation of more than 79,000 citizens gives great strength to this movement. This year’s Cyclothon is dedicated to the ‘Statue of Hindu Bhushan.’ Thousands of cyclists paid tribute to Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. We faced many hurdles in building the memorial, but we won’t tolerate any further allegations. I appeal to everyone to unite for the work of Shiv–Shambu and for the city.”
“Pimpri-Chinchwad is home to three rivers — Pavana, Indrayani and Mutha. Protecting, beautifying and conserving them is everyone’s responsibility. The Cyclothon encourages citizens to use bicycles and shift towards non-motorised transport. This reduces pollution and promotes a healthier lifestyle. The municipal corporation supports such initiatives. Every citizen must take responsibility to keep the city and its rivers pollution-free. The River Cyclothon serves that purpose, and the strong public response is encouraging.” Shravan Hardikar
