Bhadrak, Dec. 17 -- District Collector Dilip Routrai on Wednesday rode a bicycle from his official residence to his office, drawing attention from locals and passersby. The sight of a senior IAS officer choosing a bicycle over an official vehicle was unusual.

Speaking to the media, Routrai said the move was driven by his focus on personal fitness and environmental responsibility. He said he had no tour programme scheduled for the day and only needed to travel from his residence to the office, for which he chose the bicycle instead of an official vehicle.

"Cycling helps me stay fit and also reduces carbon footprint and fuel consumption," he said.

The Collector also referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Fit India movement, saying bi...