Aizawl: In a demonstration of resilience and dedication, Vanlallawmzuala Varte, the cyclist behind a ‘Ride to Clean Air’ mission, returned to Aizawl on November 5, 2024, after completing an all-India cycling tour. Over the course of 286 days, Varte cycled 17,043.10 kilometers, averaging 83.54 kilometers per day while crisscrossing 28 states and 5 Union Territories of India. The event, under the banner of Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), was a success, garnering widespread praise and a hero’s welcome from the people of Mizoram.
The mission was launched in January 2024 with the goal of promoting clean and sustainable lifestyles through cycling, drawing attention to environmental issues like air pollution and climate change. The All India Cycling Tour, sponsored by the Mizoram State Pollution Control Board and supported by the Mizoram Cycling Association, aimed to encourage people across the country to adopt more sustainable modes of transportation and take part in safeguarding the planet’s future.
The Epic Journey: 17,043.10 Kilometers Across the Country
Vanlallawmzuala Varte’s journey began on January 25, 2024, from Aizawl. Over the course of 286 days, Varte pedaled his way through challenging terrains, diverse weather conditions, and countless miles to raise awareness for a cleaner environment. By the time he reached Mizoram again on October 31, 2024, he had covered an astounding 16,908.84 kilometers. However, his mission was not over. He continued riding to his home district of Selesih, reaching back on November 2, 2024, after covering 17,028.10 kilometers.
Throughout his journey, Varte passed through a diverse array of states, ranging from the coastal plains of Tamil Nadu and Kerala to the challenging heights of Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh. His route also took him through assorted terrains—from the dense forests of Meghalaya to the arid deserts of Rajasthan.
Vanlallawmzuala Varte’s longest ride in a single day was an impressive 207.82 km, which he completed on August 27, 2024, cycling from Lucknow to Badlapur. On the other hand, his shortest ride in a day was 30.66 km, covering the distance from Badlapur to Jaunpur on August 28, 2024.
Ride Statistics
Tour Duration: 286 days
Actual Riding Days: 204 days
Total Distance Covered: 17,043.10 km
Average Distance Per Day: 83.54 km
Average Speed: 33.49 km/hr
Highest Elevation Gain in a Day: 1,987 meters (Dras to Kullan on July 6, 2024)
Longest Ride in a Day: 207.82 km (Lucknow to Badlapur on August 27, 2024)
Calories Burned in Total: 590,014 kcal
Throughout his journey, Varte not only showcased physical endurance, but also demonstrated the power of human determination in the face of adversity. He averaged over 83 kilometers per day, sometimes riding at speeds as high as 68.8 km/hr.
Varte traversed some of the most difficult routes in India, including the treacherous terrain of the Himalayas, the rugged roads of Uttar Pradesh, and the sweltering heat of central India, all while promoting the urgent need for clean air and reducing carbon footprints. His highest elevation gain in a day was 1,987 meters, as he navigated the challenging Dras sector.
Upon his return to Aizawl, Vanlallawmzuala Varte was greeted with admiration and support. A grand parade was organized in his honor, starting from Durtlang Leitan and proceeding to Raj Bhavan.
An official reception was held by the Mizoram Pollution Control Board (MPCB) and the Mizoram Cycling Association, where Varte was hailed as an ambassador of environmental consciousness. Leaders and dignitaries from the state government, including members from the State Pollution Control Board, expressed their gratitude for his commitment to raising awareness on clean air and sustainable living.
A program was held to honor the cyclist in his locality, Mission Veng where a huge crowd gathered to applaud their hero.
The Ride to Clean Air mission was more than just a personal challenge for Varte; it was an effort to embody the principles of Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), an initiative introduced by the Government of India to promote environmentally friendly lifestyles. Through his ride, Varte advocated for a more sustainable way of life—one that reduces our carbon footprint, promotes cleaner air, and fosters a greater sense of environmental responsibility among people.
Throughout his journey, Varte visited schools, colleges, and community centers, speaking to young people about the importance of adopting eco-friendly habits, such as using bicycles instead of cars and promoting the use of renewable energy sources. His mission was also a call to action for local and national governments to prioritize cleaner air policies and reduce the impact of air pollution on public health.
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