Sikar witnessed the organisation of a “Run for Environment” event on the eve of World Environment Day (June 5) to raise awareness about environmental conservation, pollution control and the protection of natural resources.
The programme was organised by the district administration and the State Pollution Control Board, with participation from public representatives, administrative officials and a large number of residents.
The awareness run commenced from the Police Line Ground on Silver Jubilee Road. Former MP Sumedhanand Saraswati, District Collector Ashish Modi, Superintendent of Police Praveen Nayak Nunawat and Dantaramgarh Assembly constituency candidate Gajanan Kumawat flagged off the event.
Former MP Sumedhanand Saraswati also participated in the run alongside officials and other participants.
The “Run for Environment” started from the Police Line Ground and passed through several prominent city locations. Participants travelled via Kalyan Circle, Tapadia Bagichi, Jat Bazaar and Mahamandir Road before reaching Ramlila Maidan.
Police personnel were deployed to maintain security arrangements and manage traffic to ensure the smooth conduct of the programme.
T-shirts and caps were distributed among participants during the event.
Addressing the gathering, former MP Sumedhanand Saraswati said environmental protection is not merely a campaign but a responsibility of all citizens.
He said activities such as tree plantation and water conservation should be adopted as a “duty” to help curb increasing pollution. He added that substantial environmental improvement is possible if every individual contributes at their own level.
He also said that changing lifestyles and industrialisation are increasing pressure on the environment and that collective efforts are necessary to maintain balance.
A large number of local residents, students and youth took part in the programme.
Organisers stated that the objective of such events is not only to conduct a run but also to develop environmental sensitivity among people.
Participants said such programmes encourage awareness of healthy lifestyles and the importance of environmental protection.
Dantaramgarh candidate Gajanan Kumawat said such runs and public programmes motivate people to participate in social campaigns. He said that when people observe a campaign being undertaken collectively, they are encouraged to become involved themselves.
He appealed to young people to make environmental protection a part of their lifestyle and to participate regularly in such initiatives.
The importance of pollution control and water conservation was also highlighted during the programme. Officials said increasing urbanisation and excessive use of resources are affecting environmental balance.
They said measures such as tree plantation, water conservation and cleanliness should be adopted not only as government policy but also as a social responsibility.
Various awareness programmes are being organised across Sikar and surrounding areas ahead of World Environment Day. Schools, colleges and social organisations are also conducting tree plantation drives and cleanliness campaigns.
The “Run for Environment” event is being regarded as part of these activities aimed at encouraging active public participation in environmental conservation.
