Citizens lauded the efforts of the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) in organising Sabarmati Marathon 2013 on Sunday. Not only people participated in different categories of the event’s third edition, they also came on streets to encourage runners on a chilly morning. Many people came with their family, so that children get inspired by the participants. However, a few spectators stressed on the need for sensitizing people and spreading awareness, while others were displeased as roads had to be closed for traffic.

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Many Amdavadis said that such events would help in creating health awareness and inspire people to walk and run to keep themselves fit. “Marathon is a good event and such events should be organised regularly. However, organisers need more support from people,” said Devendra Rohela, who came to watch the event with his family. Many onlookers were unhappy to see cyclists and motorcyclists using roads while marathon was in progress. They were of the opinion that sensitising people about such events was necessary. “Such behaviour tarnishes India’s image in other countries,” said Jitendra Patel, a resident of Ghatlodia.

Despite AMC’s efforts, information about registration, timing and route of the marathon, closer of roads and other relevant information did not reach everybody. “I wish I had participated in the Dream Run. Before I came to know about registration, it was over,” said Nauka Prajapati, lecturer of history with HK Arts College. However, some people were unhappy about the blockade on roads. An official of the foods and drugs department of the state government had a heated argument with a senior official of Ahmedabad Janmarg Ltd as BRTS buses were stopped at Hemlet Circle. “You should have invited suggestions of people before finalising the routes or should not have stopped BRTS service. How can you stop service in between,” said the furious government employee. Both threatened each other of a complaint to their superiors.

Some commuters had to travel 3-4 km extra though their destination was just on the other side of the road. Vehicular movement was curbed on many streets and they did not wish to leave their vehicle behind.