Seven cycling enthusiasts from the group ‘Cycle Dost’ in Ranchi recently rode from Manali to Khardung La covering a distance of about 520 Kms in 11 days. The group strongly believes in ‘Hum Fit toh India Fit’ and ‘Go Green’.
The expedition, which started in Manali on June 29, culminated at Khardung La via Leh on July 9. The group covered five treacherous mountain passes on the way including Khardung La which is the highest mountain pass in the world at approximately 18,000 feet. It is also the highest motorable road in the world. It also crossed the second highest mountain pass Taglang La which is at 17,582 feet.
Cycle Dost is a group of around 100 likeminded professionals, businessmen and government officials who have been pedaling for health and environment. From 25 to 55 years in age, the cyclists get together every Sunday and cover a distance of about 50- 60 Kms in Ranchi and its surrounding areas.
52-year old Rajeev Ranjan Tripathi, Superintendent Central GST, Ranchi was the senior most member of the expedition. He has been a part of Cycle dost for the past three years. “The terrain is generally crossed by bikers and all through the trek we were the only cyclists. The journey started at about 6000 feet and went to a height of approximately 18000 feet. The purpose of this trip was to encourage cycling among all age groups as India imports more than 80 percent of fossil fuels and if this continues, it will adversely hamper the economy in the coming years,” said Tripathi.
The officer strongly feels that that the humble locals, who welcomed them to their houses for night halts, was the most beautiful part of the journey. Surviving with the bare minimum facilities available and in freezing temperatures was certainly tough. “Because we were cycling acclimatisation in such adverse conditions was much easier. We were also practicing ‘Pranayam’ (breathing exercises) regularly from much before the expedition started. At times some of us did get breathless but with sheer will power, we reached our destination,” he further added.
Vinay Vibhakar (44) a city based Chartered Accountant has been a part of this group for the past one and a half years. “We want to make cycling a fashion statement in Ranchi so that people from all age groups and backgrounds can be a part of it. When cycling one feels connected with nature and the people around. For an expedition like this one needs to have a strong will power and a never give up attitude,” said the CA.
“This trip has taught me to push myself harder towards my goal no matter what the circumstances. Every day a new challenge would come up like freezing weather or extremely low oxygen levels. You just need to be very strong mentally for doing a trek like this and it’s not impossible,” he further added.
Ganesh Reddy (49) secretary Citizens Foundation (NGO) feels that the expedition has not only built their confidence but has also instilled a feeling of team spirit in them. “It has trained us to survive with the bare minimum resources and sustain in the most difficult conditions. This trek has taught me a very important lesson that just like climbing mountains, life is also full of ups and downs and one needs to keep going,” asserted Reddy.
“This expedition is considered as one of the toughest routes in the world. During the course of our journey we interacted with people from all over the world. People on bikes and in cars encouraged us all along the way.” Reddy said.
The other four members of the trek were Sanchit Prasad, Superintendent Central GST, Ranchi, Rajeev Kamal Bittu- a chartered accountant, dentist Dr. Udeep Lal and Nipun Jain a businessman.