The 31-day Saarc Rally – which was flagged off in New Delhi by Saarc Heads of State/Government on Tuesday – has been a roaring success, say organisers CII and the MEA. CII arranged several business events to promote ‘Brand Saarc’ to coincide with the rally, and hopes that trade, tourism, telecom and travel connectivity will get a boost.
The participants recount heartening tales of warmth and hospitality across borders, although security has been a major concern, so much so that the organisers have arranged for a naval vessel to take the 28 cars from Mumbai to Sri Lanka.
Interestingly, the cars will not be taken to the Maldives – only the drivers will go. As rallyist Hari Singh quips, "If all the cars were to land on the 3-km wide island, it would sink!"