The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Coastal Cyclothon 2025, an initiative covering 6,553 km of India’s coastline, is set to reach Mumbai on March 20, marking the halfway point of this monumental journey. Having already covered 3,306 km, this ride is raising awareness about coastal security, urging fishing communities to play an active role in safeguarding India’s shores.
The event, led by CISF is also engaging local populations, emphasizing their role in preventing smuggling, illegal trafficking, and other security threats along the coastline. The initiative has received immense support from the fishing communities, including the Kharwa and Koli fishermen on the western coast, and the Kaibartas, Nolia, Jalaripeta, Thota Veedi, and Eguvapeta fishermen on the eastern coast, said a statement released by CISF.
“The cyclothon is not just about cycling—it is about building stronger community ties with law enforcement,” said the spokesperson. CISF personnel are conducting public outreach programs, fostering coordination between local communities and security agencies. Various cultural events have been organized, highlighting India’s rich coastal heritage. People from all walks of life, including schoolchildren and youth, have actively participated in the initiative, with some even cycling alongside the riders for short distances to show their support.
The cyclothon has successfully covered 3,306 km so far. The event has seen a tremendous response, with more than 10 lakh people physically participating in rallies, awareness programs, and cultural events, while over 40 lakh people have engaged with the campaign online. More than 1,000 cyclists have officially registered and joined the movement, reinforcing its significance.
A total of 26 major cultural and awareness events have been organized, alongside 118 local-level interactions, strengthening the connection between security forces and coastal communities. “The initiative has received strong support from eminent personalities across different fields. Prominent sports figures like Neeraj Chopra, Manu Bhaker, Baichung Bhutia, Suresh Raina, and Javagal Srinath have extended their encouragement. Bollywood celebrities, including Akshay Kumar, Sunil Shetty, Anil Kapoor, Manoj Bajpai, and Milind Soman, have also lent their support to the movement,” the spokesperson added.
Beyond the entertainment industry and sports, the event has been endorsed by Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, Padma Shri award-winning sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik, Arjuna Awardee para-badminton player Pramod Bhagat, Odisha Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena, and Shri Raja Shivendra Narayan Bhanjadeo, the King of Kanika.
Starting from Lakhpat in Gujarat on the western coast and Bhakkali in West Bengal on the eastern coast, the cyclists have so far covered 1,921 km along the west coast and 1,385 km along the east coast. Now reaching Mumbai, the event marks a crucial milestone before the riders continue toward their final destination in Kanyakumari.
Mumbai will celebrate the arrival of the cyclothon at the Gateway of India on March 20, 2025, with a grand reception featuring community interactions and cultural performances. The event will highlight the importance of coastal security and sustainability, drawing further public attention to the initiative.
Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar, along with Bollywood stars Akshay Kumar, Anil Kapoor, Jackie Shroff, Boman Irani, and Suniel Shetty, are expected to be present to cheer on the riders and promote the cause.
After Mumbai, the cyclothon will continue to Goa on March 23, 2025, followed by Chennai on March 25, 2025. The riders will then proceed to Mangaluru on March 26, 2025, Cochin on March 29, 2025, and will reach their final destination, Kanyakumari, on April 1, 2025.
“The CISF Coastal Cyclothon is more than just a ride—it is a call to action for vigilance and unity. It seeks to spread awareness about coastal security and the crucial role of fishing communities in defending the country’s shores. Public participation and engagement continue to be instrumental in making this initiative a success,” he added.
For more details and updates, visit www.cisfcyclothon.com.
