Daijiworld Media Network - Shimla
Shimla, Apr 11: Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on Friday flagged off the Fifth Silk Route Ultra Trail Run from Narkanda in Shimla district. The event, held along the historic Hindustan-Tibet Road, aims to promote a drug-free Himachal and revive the region's cultural and historical legacy.
The 102-km run, which culminates in Sarahan, traverses a scenic and culturally rich route first laid by the British in the 19th century to facilitate trade with Tibet via the Shipki-La border post. Divided into four categories, the race draws adventure seekers from across India, with 250 participants including international athletes from France and Germany.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Governor Shukla said, “The youth are not only our future, but also our present. It is our collective duty to guide them positively.” He praised the organisers for aligning the event with the state’s anti-drug campaign and emphasised the need for a united societal effort in tackling the growing menace of drug addiction.
“This run is more than a sporting event it is a vibrant platform to connect with the nature, traditions, and heritage of Dev Bhoomi Himachal,” he said, highlighting the role such events play in promoting eco-tourism and creating employment opportunities for local youth.
Organised in collaboration with the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Department, Indian Oil, Himachal Pradesh State AIDS Control Society, and HimEra, the ultra-trail run reflects the state’s focus on combining tourism with social awareness.
Additional Director General of Police Satwant Atwal Trivedi described the run as a reflection of the spirit of Himachal Pradesh, while ADGP (Law and Order) Abhishek Trivedi lauded the positive role of sports in channelising youth energy constructively.
The Hindustan-Tibet Road, now part of National Highway-5, is a vital and treacherous lifeline connecting the trans-Himalayan Buddhist regions of Kinnaur and Spiti with the rest of the state. The route runs parallel to the Satluj river and often faces disruptions due to flooding, especially between Wangtoo and Khab.
Despite the challenges, events like the Silk Route Ultra Trail Run are bringing new life to these age-old paths, reviving the essence of Himachal’s history while steering its youth towards a brighter, drug-free future.