Surat Youths Hoist Tricolor at 17,300 Feet with ‘No Drugs’ Message on Friendship Peak

SURAT, GUJARAT : In a remarkable display of endurance and dedication, a team of 19 young climbers from Gujarat scaled the majestic Friendship Peak, located in the Pir Panjal range of Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu district, and hoisted the Indian tricolor at an altitude of 17,300 feet. The climbers aimed to spread a powerful message through their ascent: “No Drugs.”

On May 28, after seven days of battling extremely low temperatures and heavy snowfall, the team reached the summit of Friendship Peak, which stands at 5,289 meters above sea level. Dhruv Patel and Chirag Patel, both from Surat,  hoisted the tricolor on Friendship Peak, symbolizing their commitment to the anti-drug campaign.

This ambitious expedition was organized by Invincible NGO, India’s largest trekking and adventure organization. The young climbers underwent two months of rigorous training, which included running 5 kilometers daily, practicing climbing and descending with luggage, and engaging in yoga and pranayama. The candidates were selected based on their technical training through video lectures, followed by a physical test.

The journey to Friendship Peak began on May 21. Throughout the expedition, the climbers demonstrated exceptional resilience and teamwork. The Surat-based team members who successfully reached the summit included Vatsal Kathiria, Nandan Manek, Garva Mewada, Vishwas Hapani, Dhruv Patel, Chirag Patel, Swayam Kacha, Ashutosh Mehta, and Het Patel. Meanwhile, Deep Hapani, Priya Patel, Sarthak Joshi, Mayur Bajania, Nishil Gardesia, and Mayank Kacha stayed 150 feet below the summit to assist an ailing teammate, exemplifying the spirit of camaraderie.

Invincible NGO sponsored the entire team to increase awareness about the dangers of drug abuse among the youth. The organization has been tirelessly working to combat drug addiction, which has become a growing concern in recent years. By sponsoring this climb, Invincible NGO aimed to inspire young people to stay away from drugs and lead a healthy, adventurous life.

Dhruv Patel expressed his pride in participating in the campaign. “Our ascent to Friendship Peak was not just about conquering a mountain but about spreading an important message. The fight against drug abuse is crucial, and we hope our efforts inspire others to join the cause.”