THANE: A 10-year-old girl from Thane city, who cycled a distance of more than 3,600 km between Kashmir and Kanyakumari to spread awareness about hazards of vehicular pollution and saving the girl child, was given a warm welcome when she arrived here at the end of her expedition.
Sai Patil, a resident of Balkum, accompanied by her father started the cycling expedition last month.
The girl was given a warm welcome by city residents when she arrived here on Sunday evening. The local residents took out a procession with Sai Patil sitting on a decorated chariot and felicitated her at a function.
The girl pedaled at least 100 km a day and visited schools and other places during her journey to spread the message of saving the girl child and highlighting hazards of vehicular pollution, her father said.
She completed her expedition in 38 days and has qualified to enter record books, he claimed.
Talking to the media, Sai Patil said through out the route of her journey she received love and affection from people.
“They took care of me like their family member and provided us whatever we needed. Shelter was also provided by those whom we came across. At some places, we found it difficult to communicate, but eventually overcame that barrier with the use of sign language,” she said.
The Thane girl said people everywhere appreciated the causes for which had undertaken the arduous journey.
“When we explained to them the purpose of our tour they were delighted and wished me good luck,” said Sai Patil, who was accompanied by her parents at the function.–(PTI)
