DOGRA HERALD BUREAU
jammu, jULY 18
Under the visionary guidance of Commissioner Secretary Tourism, Yasha Mudgal and the Director Tourism Jammu, Vivekanand Rai, the Directorate of Tourism Jammu, in collaboration with Shakti Udghosh Foundation, organized a nine day “All Women Motorbike Expedition” from 18th to 27th July 2024. The journey from Jammu to Siachen Base Camp via Srinagar, themed “Ride with Pride: Honouring Our Bravehearts,” serves as a tribute to the valour and resilience of Indian women and as homage to the brave soldiers safeguarding our borders in the world’s most extreme terrains.
The expedition was flagged off today from the Balidan Stambh by Joint Director Tourism, Sunaina Sharma Mehta, who was also the Chief Guest on the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion, Mehta shared her words of encouragement for the women embarking on this adventurous journey, expressing deep gratitude for being part of this endeavour aimed at honouring the bravehearts and championing women’s empowerment. She expressed hope that this bike rally would highlight the potential of adventure tourism in the Jammu Division and attract other bike enthusiasts from India and abroad to include Jammu in their bike tour circuits. She further added that elaborate arrangements are in place for the smooth facilitation of the bikers. The expedition began in an environment filled with fervour and enthusiasm. Dr. Preeti Chaudhary, convenor of the Shakti Udghosh Foundation and the leader of the expedition, served as the Marshal rider, leading a diverse group of bikers comprising 12 women and 3 men.
Also present on the occasion were Dr. Showkat Hayat Matto, Deputy Director Tourism Jammu, Mohammad Arif Lone, ADT NHW Batote, Muzamil Hassan, AD Tourism Jammu, and other officials of the department.
Over the next 9 days, the expedition will navigate the majestic Shivaliks, traverse the breathtaking Kashmir Valley, conquer the formidable Zoji La Pass and brave the stark beauty of Ladakh, leading to the Base Camp of Siachen—the world’s highest battlefield. The route includes the following stages: Jammu to Srinagar (18th July), Srinagar to Kargil (19th July), Kargil to Leh (20th July), a day halt in Leh for acclimatization (21st July), Leh to Diskit/Panamik (22nd July), Panamik to Siachen Base Camp and back to Hunder (23rd July), Hunder to Leh (24th July), Leh to Kargil (25th July), Kargil (closing ceremony) and back to Srinagar (26th July), and finally Srinagar to Jammu (27th July).
The event aims to illuminate the courage of our soldiers while showcasing the unwavering strength and determination of women riders, sending a powerful message of empowerment and unity. The participants in this bike rally come from various parts of the country, including Tamil Nadu, Bihar, and the Union Territory of Delhi.
The Directorate of Tourism, Jammu, and the Shakti Udghosh Foundation proudly present this all-women motorbike expedition, showcasing the indomitable spirit of Indian women and paying tribute to the brave soldiers of India.
