This year's theme, 'Racing for Air' highlighted the urgent need for collective action against air pollution and promotion of sustainable lifestyles.
The Odisha State Pollution Control Board, in collaboration with the Centre for Environment Studies under the Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department, on Sunday organised a mega awareness 5-km-long bicycle Rally here to commemorate the "International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies" 2025 in an attempt to spread the message of a clean environment and sustainable living.
This year's theme, 'Racing for Air' highlighted the urgent need for collective action against air pollution and promotion of sustainable lifestyles.
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The State's Additional Chief Secretary, Forest, Environment & Climate Change Satyabrat Sahu flagged off the event in the presence of Prem Kumar Jha, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Uma Nanduri, Member Secretary, State Pollution Control Board, Dr Nihar Ranjan Sahu, Chief Environmental Engineer, Dillip Kumar Dash, Senior Environmental Engineer, State Pollution Control Board and other officials.
"This global day reminds us of the urgent need to protect the very air we breathe and to ensure that future generations inherit a cleaner, healthier, and sustainable environment. Clean air is our fundamental right and collective responsibility. Today's rally is not just a symbolic event, but a strong message that every individual, every community, and every institution has a role to play in keeping our skies blue and our air pure," Sahu said on the occasion.
He urged citizens to adopt bicycles, public transport, and renewable energy sources to combat the rising threat of air pollution and climate change.
The rally will not only create public awareness but also showcase the importance of cycling as a sustainable and healthy alternative to motorized vehicles, promotion of greener lifestyles, and inspire others to contribute to the mission of ensuring blue skies for a healthier tomorrow. It will successfully spread the message that simple actions-Cycling, using public transport, turning off engines at traffic lights and railway crossings, and avoiding open burning- can significantly improve air quality and ensure a healthier future.
The event attracted enthusiastic participation of students, youth volunteers, and members from eco-clubs, environmental activists, and local citizens who carried placards with messages promoting clean air, clean mobility, and reduced emissions. E-rickshaws announced awareness messages across the city.
It is pertinent to note here that the United Nations declared 7 September to raise worldwide awareness on air pollution and its impact on human health, ecosystems, and the climate.
Air pollution is often invisible, yet it is one of the biggest environmental health risks of our times. According to global reports, nearly 7 million people die prematurely every year due to air pollution-related diseases such as asthma, lung cancer, stroke, and heart ailments.