Shimla:

A cycling expedition was organized at the world’s highest polling station, Tashigang, in Lahaul and Spiti to promote voter awareness.

Under the SVEEP initiative, the cycling expedition, led by Himachal Pradesh Election Commission’s State Icon Jaspreet Paul, commenced on May 14 and concluded at Tashigang yesterday. Additional Deputy Commissioner Kaza Rahul Jain graced the event as the chief guest.

The expedition covered a route through Spiti, passing by Sumdo, Hurling, Lari, Tabo, Poh, Shichling, Shego, Kaza, Langcha, Komik, and Hikkim. ADC Kaza, accompanied by several officials, pedaled from Kaza Circuit House to Munesling School Rangrik, covering approximately 9 km.

The school warmly welcomed the participants. Addressing the gathering, ADC Rahul Jain emphasized the significance of voter awareness and urged Spiti residents to achieve an 80 percent voter turnout.

Cyclist Jaspreet Pal encouraged children to motivate their family members with voting rights to cast their ballots on June 1.

After a cultural program by Munseling School Rangrik students, cyclist Jaspreet Pal and Kshitij Thakur embarked on their journey from Rangrik to Tashigang, escorted by a human chain formed by school children.

Arriving at Tashigang around four o’clock in the evening, the cyclists received a warm welcome from the local residents and Key Buddhist Monastery Lamas. A colorful cultural program ensued, accompanied by the distribution of special invitation letters to voters, courtesy of the Election Commission.

Jaspreet Paul expressed gratitude for being appointed as the state icon and highlighted the challenges faced during the expedition. He pledged to revisit Tashigang if the voter turnout reaches 100 percent.

He urged voters across the state to participate in large numbers on June 1. Assistant Election Officer Harsh Amarender Negi, Tehsildar Bhumika Jain, department heads, Munseling School founder Tashi Namgyal, school staff, and local residents attended the event.