Report: ANI
KARACHI — Nearly 300 cyclists, Rotarians, health partners and community members participated in the “Let’s Ride Out Polio” bicycle rally organised by Rotary International District 3271 in Karachi to raise awareness about polio eradication and promote a polio-free Pakistan.
The early-morning rally began at PIDC and proceeded towards Port Grand, bringing together participants under the shared message that eliminating polio requires sustained public participation and coordinated efforts by government institutions, international partners and local communities.
The event highlighted Rotary’s longstanding commitment to polio eradication and its collaboration with government departments and international health organisations to protect children against the vaccine-preventable disease.
The rally was attended by Additional Chief Secretary Iqbal Memon, National PolioPlus Committee Chair Aziz Memon, UNICEF Team Lead Dr Jorge G. Caravotta, Deputy Commissioner South Javed Nabi Khoso, Rotary District Governor Shahzad Sabir, Past District Governors Dr Farhan Essa and Aftab Imam, and District Governor-Elect Fahad Sikander.
Rotarians, representatives of partner organisations, cycling group leaders and community members also participated in the initiative.
Addressing the gathering, the participants reaffirmed their commitment to eradicating polio from Pakistan, emphasising that reaching every child requires continuous coordination among government institutions, Rotary International, global health partners and local communities.
The organisers said the rally conveyed a message of hope, solidarity and collective responsibility, stressing that every child deserves protection from polio and its potentially lifelong consequences.
Rotary District 3271 acknowledged the support of event partners Pakistan State Oil (PSO) and SCG, along with the Health Department of the Government of Sindh, the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) Sindh and the Pakistan Polio Eradication Programme.
The organisers also appreciated the contributions of the event committee, Rotary members, support staff, volunteers and cycling group administrators for coordinating the rally, ensuring safety and managing logistical arrangements.
The event concluded at Port Grand with an awareness session honouring frontline polio workers, followed by a fellowship gathering and complimentary breakfast for participants.
The organisers reiterated their resolve to continue supporting polio eradication efforts and safeguarding the health and future of Pakistan’s children.
