The Dutch embassy is organizing a bicycle ride through Bogota for April 17, in order to promote cycling as an eco-friendly transport alternative for Colombians.
The event, named the “Orange Bike Path,” will also promote the preservation and proper management of water as a way to cope with the problem of flooding in Colombia.
Marion Kappeyne, the Netherlands ambassador to Colombia, explained, “We have one planet and caring for it is everyone’s responsibility. The Orange Bike Path draws attention to the importance of water preservation. Water is a precious commodity that must be managed well to generate sustainable solutions to floods and droughts that are caused by climate change.”
She added that the event is part of an initiative by the Dutch to encourage more use of bicycles in cities worldwide.
Colombian officials, embassy personnel, members of the Dutch community and business people will dress in orange, the Netherlands’ national color, and participate in the bike tour. Residents are also invited to join the ride.
This year is the second bicycle ride to be organized by the Dutch embassy, with last year’s being a popular success. The event, supported by the Institute of Recreation and Sport in Bogota, will begin at 8:30AM from the Centro Comercial Hacienda Santa Barbara and culminate with a performance by Dutch trumpeter and pianist Maite Hontelé as well as a salsa party.
The Dutch are renowned for their love of cycling with the Netherlands having more bicycles than it has people.