Colombo’s first ever car-free day – #CarFreeCMB kicked off this morning at Independence Avenue.
The initiative by the Colombo Municipal Council and The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Sri Lanka, is an effort to reduce the public’s dependence on motor vehicles while promoting a healthier and more sustainable urban lifestyle and saw the participation of young and old.
The morning of open streets started at 6 a.m at Independence Avenue and will proceed towards Green Path.
A majority of the activities were fitness based with free classes and demonstrations; each placed within Experience Zones A, B and C. The Qi-Gong class, was one of the first activities that took off this morning at 6.30 am with sessions at 7.30, 8.30 and 9.30 respectively.
A dance burn class by Zumba Sri Lanka commenced at 9 whilst the first session of Krav Maga with Master Wijesiri commenced at 10.00 am.
Interestingly, kids were offered a variety of activities as well from scavenger hunts, games and rollerblade training at their very own ‘little gym’; movement based learning and imaginative play lessons for kids aged 3-12 years.
Apart from the scheduled activities, bike rentals and rollerblade training sessions will take place throughout the course of the event.
Car-Free Day (CFD) is a global movement held in many countries and across many cities with the primary objective of increasing public awareness on the importance of reducing the use of fossil fuels through the adoption of alternative means of transportation.
More pics here
Photos: Saman Abesiriwardana
