KARACHI: The cycling group Cycologists arranged a ‘Naya Pakistan Ride’ for its cyclists with a visit to Sindh Governor House as the main highlight of the ride on Saturday morning.

Cycologists is a Karachi-based non-profit, easy cycling and social meet-up group that brings together those interested in cycling and improving their health and fitness. The group organises rides every Saturday and a few regular days of the week with routes ranging from regular streets to the highlights of Karachi.

Governor House has been the talk of the town since it opened for the public earlier this month. Hence, Cycologists as part of their initiative to promote various significant landmarks of Karachi dedicated a cycling ride to this historical building.

The ride started at around 6.30am from Zamzama with over 80 cyclists who were very keen to see Governor House for the first time. The group rode from various streets of DHA to Chaudhry Khalique Uz Zaman Road which led to the venue.

Upon reaching the site, security check was conducted and the Cycologists group was allowed inside the premise by the protocol staff who provided a guided tour of the building, Quaid-i-Azam’s office which was well-maintained with antique wood furniture, Persian carpets, crockery and a few memorable photographs all dating back to the 1940s. The building is surrounded by lush green lawns with trees and a monumental water fountain at the entrance that welcomes visitors.

The cyclists appreciated government of Pakistan’s initiative for allowing public access to Governor House and were overwhelmed by the aura and the rich history it had to offer. To demonstrate solidarity and patriotism towards the country the cyclists also sang the national anthem in full enthusiasm and spirit with a very emotionally intense Pakistan Zindabad slogan while departing from Governor House.

Published in Dawn, September 23rd, 2018