ISLAMABAD: Nearly 300 cyclists from all walks of life participated in a cycling championship in Islamabad on Sunday, demonstrating enthusiasm for healthy and environmentally friendly activities.

Meanwhile, hundreds of healthcare professionals joined a hike at Margalla Trail 3 to raise awareness about obesity.

The Islamabad Cycling Championship featured inclusive race categories for Open Men, Open Women, Senior Men, Senior Women, Under-16 and Under-9 participants.

The event was organised by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI) in collaboration with Allied Bank Limited.

According to MCI, the event was attended by senior officials and dignitaries, including the district magistrate of Islamabad, the member finance of CDA, the deputy superintendent of police (DSP) of traffic police, the president of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce, students and members of the national women’s cricket team, many of whom also joined the cycling activity.

Cash prizes were awarded to the top three champions in each category to recognise their performance and encourage greater participation in cycling and fitness activities.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Officer MCI Dr Anam Fatima said, “Public spaces are meant to bring people together, and initiatives like this reflect our vision of an Islamabad that is active, inclusive, and environmentally responsible.” She added that the championship underscores CDA and MCI’s commitment to promoting urban green mobility, encouraging healthy lifestyles and raising awareness about environmental sustainability as part of the broader vision of a clean and green Islamabad.

Dr Fatima further stated that MCI and CDA will continue to organise such activities to promote healthy lifestyles and public participation, emphasising that providing healthy recreational opportunities to the citizens of Islamabad is among their top priorities.

On the same day, hundreds of healthcare professionals participated in a hike against obesity at Margalla Trail 3. The event was organised by the Islamabad Medical and Dental College in collaboration with Dr Akbar Niazi Teaching Hospital.

Over 700 participants, including students of medicine, dentistry, physical therapy, medical lab technology and nursing, along with faculty members, practising physicians and surgeons, and healthcare management personnel, marched up the scenic trail. Senior leadership remained present throughout, appreciating and encouraging the hikers for their efforts to preserve the beauty of the hills by keeping the route litter-free.

Addressing the gathering, Yasir Khan Niazi described the initiative as more than a recreational outing, noting that such programs form a cornerstone of the college’s vision to cultivate not only academically strong graduates but well-rounded professionals grounded in lifelong learning, ethical practices, community engagement and healthy lifestyles.

Published in Dawn, February 16th, 2026