Lahore: Sunday, May 5, 2024.The excitement reverberated through Lahore’s bustling streets as the city’s first-ever Jeep Rally flagged off in a grand ceremony held at Pakistan’s pioneering Central Business District Punjab (CBD Punjab). Organized jointly by the Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA) and the Tourism Development Corporation Punjab (TDCP), with the generous support of CBD Punjab, the event marked a significant milestone in Pakistan’s motorsport and tourism landscape.
The flag off ceremony of rally titled Lahore Ravi Rally Cross, held at CBD Punjab Quaid District Lahore Prime, was a testament to the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders. CBD Punjab spared no effort in adorning the entire area with vibrant race flags and banners, setting the stage for an exhilarating start to the rally. The esteemed Chief Guest, COO of CBD Punjab and RUDA Brigadier (R) Mansoor Janjua, graced the occasion alongside dignitaries like Secretary Tourism Punjab Raja Jahangir Anwar and other high-ranking officials from CBD Punjab, RUDA, and TDCP.
Adding to the fervor, Team CBD Punjab announced its participation in the rally with their branded rally truck, heightening anticipation among attendees. Rally enthusiasts from across Pakistan, including renowned drivers such as Suneel Manj, Ronnie Patel, Sahibzada Sultan, Aqeel Ahmed Shiraz Khaqwani, and teams like Team Asia and Multan Racing Club, converged at the flag ceremony, ready to showcase their prowess on the challenging terrain.
In a significant display of inclusivity, female drivers including Salma Marwat Khan, Zulaikha, and Laiba Khan Lodhi, also joined the ranks, underscoring the rally’s commitment to diversity and equality in motorsports. Over 70+ jeeps, trucks, and dirt bikes lined up for the podium at the flag off ceremony, setting the stage for a fiercely competitive event.
Speaking on the occasion, the COO of CBD Punjab and RUDA Brigadier (R) Mansoor Janjua said, “It is a commendable imitative by RUDA & TDCP and the support shown by CBD Punjab for this is remarkable. Lahorites gathered at CBD Punjab Quaid District Lahore Prime are amazed to see the modern rally vehicles, which is a testament to the city’s vibrant spirit and love for adventure.”
The main race of the rally unfolded on a specially prepared 35-kilometer track, meticulously crafted over two months on the Ravi Riverbed near Lahore-Sialkot Motorway. This track, designed to international standards, will remain open year-round, offering racers a dedicated space for practice and competition.
The Lahore Ravi Rally Cross represents a significant milestone in promoting motorsports in Pakistan, bringing together enthusiasts from all walks of life to celebrate the thrill of off-road racing. With its successful flag ceremony, the event sets the stage for an action-packed competition that promises to captivate audiences and participants alike.
