Cycling is the best and cheapest form of exercise and must be promoted "on a sustained basis", Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu said.

"Cycling is the best and cheapest form of exercise to keep yourself healthy and people must be encouraged to adopt such modes of transport

"The campaign to promote the use of bicycle must be taken up on a sustained basis and it should not be confined to a ritualistic exercise on World Bicycling Day," Naidu told a gathering of cyclists and environmentalists on the first official World Bicycle Day on June 3, as designated by the United Nations.

Addressing a concern on World Environment Day, Mr Naidu spoke about rising pollution levels. He said that many cities around the world have virtually turned into chimneys due to widespread pollution and vehicular emissions.

"The time has come for cities and other urban places to promote bicycling in a big way. Dedicated bicycling tracks should be created in our cities and people should be encouraged to pedal their way to better health," he said.

"Bicycling will greatly help in reducing adverse health outcomes. Apart from burning calories, strengthening muscles and promoting fitness, daily bicycling will reduce the risk for heart diseases and cancer," he said.

Pic caption: Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu interacts with the students participating in a Bicycle Rally, on World Bicycle Day 2018, in New Delhi on June 3, 2018. Also seen Union Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan and others. (Photo: IANS/PIB)