Thanekar covers 11 countries on cycle

Rajesh Khandekar, 42, a Thane resident and the crusader against pollution has completed an incredible journey, taken over seven months, covering 21,000 kms through 11 countries on cycle.

Through an ordinary roadster bike, limited funds, a tent and an Indian flag, Khandekar has been spreading message of pollution-free travel.

He began his journey on December 21, rode his bicycle from Kolkata to Bangladesh, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and then Australia and New Zealand. In Australia, Khandekar cycled from Darwin to the Gold Coast, Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne then boarded a flight to Wellington and cycled till Auckland.

"Snowfall had started in south of New Zealand, so I could not go on the cycle in few other areas. I had to use the bus hence, I finished early. My parents were always with me in my expedition and luckily I got immense support in foreign countries as well. People offered food, shelter and extended all possible help," he said.

Khandekar incurred a total expense of Rs5 lakh and changed three tyres on his entire tour lasting eight months. "For eight months, my cycle was my world, equipped with a sleeping bag, tent, cycle kit, food material and cycling pump i had taken everything with me to complete my journey uninterrupted."

Talking about his next, Khandekar said he will head to America and South America.

"I thank everyone from my friends families and others who helped me to achieve my dream and expect all budding cyclists and others to join the cycling club not only for clean environment but also for the heck of your good health," said Khandekar.