First Exhibition of Para Tandem and Handcycles Held in Nepal
News Summary
Editorially reviewed.
- For the first time in Nepal, para tandem bicycles for the visually impaired and handcycles for wheelchair users were showcased in Kathmandu.
- The exhibition was organized by BIA Institute with support from Inclusive Cycling International based in the United States, aiming to promote inclusive sports and para-tourism.
- Cyclist Shiv Acharya remarked, ‘Riding at the back of the tandem bike with a friend was an especially unique and enjoyable experience.’
June 13, Kathmandu – Nepal witnessed the first-ever exhibition of para tandem bicycles for visually impaired individuals and handcycles designed for wheelchair users.
Supported by Inclusive Cycling International, based in the United States, BIA Institute hosted a special event on Sunday at Padmodaya Secondary School, located in Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu, to showcase these specialized cycles.
The BIA Institute introduced these adaptive bicycles in Nepal for the first time. According to the organizers, the initiative aims to ensure easy access to cycling for all, while promoting physical activity, inclusivity, and social participation.
The demonstration ride began at Padmodaya Secondary School and proceeded through Sundhara, Jamal, and past the Narayanhiti Palace Museum, concluding back at the school premises. Approximately 30 members of the Nepal Cycling Society and the F & F Cycling Group provided escort support during the ride.
Ten specialized cycles were utilized during the event. Dilip Sapkota, head of the sports department at BIA Institute, explained that the campaign aims to send a message that visually impaired individuals and wheelchair users can actively participate in adventure and tourism-related activities.
He added that the initiative is expected to attract foreign tourists who are visually impaired or use wheelchairs, thereby contributing to the growth of para-tourism and para-sports in Nepal.
This is the first time such specialized cycles have been introduced in Nepal by BIA Institute, which has been running various skill development and empowerment programs for people with physical disabilities.
Shiv Acharya, a participant in the cycling expedition, described the experience as new and exhilarating. “I have tried this before, but riding at the back of the tandem bike together with a friend gave me a completely different level of enjoyment,” he said.
Similarly, fellow participant Bimal Paudel said that riding the para tandem bike for the first time was a novel experience. “This bike has given me confidence that one can easily cycle together with a friend. I hope to have more opportunities to cycle like this in the future,” she added.
The event was attended by prominent personalities, including Chhogel Rinpoche, founding chairperson of BIA Institute, Nepali film superstar Rajesh Hamal, Scott Wehrli, the acting US Ambassador to Nepal, and other distinguished figures from various fields.