Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) Mayor Md Atiqul Islam has said that specific roads in the DNCC area will be designated for cycling two days each month.

He made the announcement while attending the "Pedal for Planet" cycling rally organised jointly by voluntary organizations Jaago Foundation and Volunteer for Bangladesh on Saturday from in front of the Sangsad Bhaban to Gulshan-2 intersection.

The rally was organised to raise awareness about carbon emissions and environmental protection.

The rally started from the Sangsad Bhaban at 8:00 am and went through Bijoy Sarani, Mohakhali, and Banani to end at Gulshan-2 Square. Total 350 cyclists participated in the rally.

"Physical exercise and sports are essential for building a drug-free and healthy society. Cycling is an excellent form of exercise. Many people are suffering from various diseases including body aches and headaches due to not playing sports or exercising. Therefore, it is necessary to play sports and exercise for good health. The youth should not spend their idle time sitting at home but should come to the field," said the mayor.

"The environment is being damaged in many ways due to climate change. Carbon emissions are increasing due to various vehicles. But the bicycle is an environment-friendly vehicle that does not emit any carbon. So, we are encouraging cycling. We will create cycle lanes. However, even after creating cycle lanes, it is seen that the encroachers occupy them. We will resist such encroachers with the help of volunteers and youth,” he added.

"We have to protect our parks and fields. Shopping malls will not be allowed in the Anwara Park at Farmgate. There will be a park there. People will walk and exercise in this park,” he also said.

Jaago Foundation founder and executive director Korvi Rakhsan was also present at the rally along with others.