UMI 2026 / Ekamra Walks Launches Special Cycling Trail for UMI 2026 Delegates

Bhubaneswar, Oct 23: In a bid to showcase Bhubaneswar’s commitment to sustainable mobility and urban living, the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA), through its Heritage Cell initiative Ekamra Walks, on Friday flagged off a special Cycling Trail as part of the ongoing Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference and Expo 2026.

The cycling event commenced at 6.30 a.m. from Mayfair Sanctuary and Convention Centre, offering delegates attending the three-day national conclave an opportunity to experience the city beyond conference halls while promoting the message of active and sustainable mobility.

Cycling Through Green Spaces

Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mohapatra flagged off the trail in the presence of Bhubaneswar Mayor Sulochana Das, Additional Chief Secretary Usha Padhee, Transport Commissioner Amitabh Thakur, CRUT Managing Director Md. Sadique Alam, Director of Municipal Administration Arindam Dakua, BDA Vice-Chairman Chanchal Rana, and Director (UT), Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Bhanu Pratap Singh Bhadoria.

Following the flag-off, participants undertook a cycling ride from the convention venue to Ekamra Kanan and back, traversing some of the city's green corridors. The ride sought to highlight the role of cycling not only as a mode of transport but also as a means of engaging with public spaces and natural surroundings.

Beyond the Conference

Officials said the initiative reflects the broader objectives of the UMI Conference by integrating sustainable transport practices with immersive urban experiences. Through the trail, delegates were introduced to Bhubaneswar’s blend of planned urban infrastructure, green landscapes and evolving mobility ecosystem.

In addition to the Cycling Trail, Ekamra Walks has curated a series of guided experiences for conference delegates, including Walk in the Wilderness at Deras, Heritage Trails, and Bhubaneswar by Night.

These programmes aim to provide visitors with diverse perspectives on the city, ranging from its rich Kalingan temple heritage and natural ecosystems to its transformation into a modern urban centre.

Showcasing City Identity 

BDA officials said the initiative seeks to bring together Bhubaneswar’s historic legacy, living traditions, natural assets and contemporary urban character. By encouraging direct engagement with the city, the programme complements discussions on sustainable urban development and mobility taking place at the UMI Conference.

An initiative of the BDA Heritage Cell, Ekamra Walks continues to offer curated experiences designed to help residents and visitors explore the city’s past, present and future.