NOAMUNDI (Odisha): Tata Steel today organised the Noamundi Run-a-thon – Run for Biodiversity in Noamundi, Odisha. This was the first-ever run for awareness in it Mine targeting the rural population.
Noamundi is known for its scenic beauty and Tata has done all that is required to restore the beauty of the area.
The first edition of Tata Steel Noamundi Run-a-thon on the theme Run for Biodiversity witnessed 5000 registration. The event was held for categories like 10 KM and 7 KM run for men and women, 5 KM run for boys and girls from schools and colleges and 2 KM run for persons with disability.
The first run of the event for 10 KM was flagged off jointly by Chanakya Chaudhary, Group Director – Corporate Communication & Regulatory Affairs and Pankaj Satija, General Manager – Ore Mines & Quarries.
While the 7 KM, 5 KM and 2 KM runs were jointly flagged off by Arava Rajkamal, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, West Singhbhum and Anish Gupta, IPS, Superintendent of Police, West Singhbhum in the presence of Satija.
Chaudhary said, “Tata Steel is committed to maintain the ecological balance in it areas of mining operations. It is always our effort to contribute to social inclusion, preservation of environment and economic development for a sustainable future. This run signifies our commitment and I am pleased to see people from all walks of life running for the cause of biodiversity.”
Satija talked about the significance of the logo created for Noamundi Run-a-thon and said, “The figure colours, namely, blue, green and rust colour used in the logo signifies Water, Forest and Land, which are basic elements of our ecosystem. Through this logo we are reiterating our commitment to conservation, enhancement and restoration of all three which has direct impact on biodiversity.”
The Noamundi Iron Mine has taken several initiatives in the past to foster biodiversity in the region. This is yet another initiative to link sports with biodiversity. The World Wildlife Week that was celebrated in all the mining locations of Tata Steel from October from 2 to October 8, 2017 concluded with this mega event of running at Noamundi.
The winner of 10 KM (Men) finished the race in 32.46 minutes whereas the winner of 10 KM (Women) finished the race in 37.56 minutes. The winner of 7 KM (Men) finished the race in 23.25 minutes whereas the winner of 7 KM (Women) finished the race in 27.34 minutes.
The winner of 5 KM (Boys) finished the race in 17.38 minutes whereas the winner of 5 KM (Girls) finished the race in 28.22 minutes. A separate award for the Persons with Disability category was also distributed to all the runners in this category.
