lucknow

Updated: Jun 27, 2017 15:29 IST

Led by Pallavi Faujdar, 13 women bikers left Lucknow on Sunday to spread awareness against female foeticide and propagate the government’s women helpline number 181.

The bikers would first go to Varanasi covering Bachrawan, Rae Bareli, Alahpur, Allahabad, Bhadohi .

“There would be street plays, events, some local activities and interactions with people on the route. A team of about 50 members of Mahila Samakhya are accompanying the bikers who would spread awareness against female foeticide and propagate women’s helpline number 181,” said Smriti Singh, director Mahila Samakhya.

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The rally was flagged off by cabinet minister Rita Bahuguna Joshi. The group would be welcomed by the district administration and local leaders in the various districts, said Smriti Singh.

“The purpose behind choosing women bikers to lead the awareness programme is to showcase women power. It is to break the myth that biking is for men alone,” said Smriti.

Pallavi Faujdar, 37, who is a renowned biker and has been winner of several national and international accolades, said, “Wherever I go, people give me that surprised look. I have a family back home but I continue to chase my passion of biking. I wish to convey to people that they should take pride in their girl child and not make attempts to kill her as girls are no less than boys.”

Pallavi has three world records. She rode through eight treacherous high mountain passes, at an altitude of 5000 meters from sea level, in a single trip on a motorcycle in July 2015 . This feat is unmatched by anyone in the world.

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“Doing Mana Pass on motorcycle, the highest and the most difficult of motorable passes in the world located at China border ahead of Badrinath, is no mean feat. Reaching Mana Pass at Point 0 the highest point on bike at altitude of 18774 feet has not been done till date by anyone except Pallavi,” said Smriti .

Pallavi is also the first motorcyclist to reach the highest fresh water lake DEO Tal (17950 feet) on motorcycle.