Dharamshala, April 21
The rescue instructors from various districts of Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday met the Additional District Magistrate (ADM) at the DC office in Dharamshala, urging the administration to provide adequate equipment for rescue operations and to implement better regulations for tourists entering mountainous areas.
Ravindra Nahariya, General Secretary of the Him Samsara Himalayan Snow and Mountain Search and Rescue Association, said the organisation is registered with the Central Government and comprises over 80 trained members who have completed basic and advanced mountaineering courses.
Highlighting safety concerns, Nahariya noted that Kangra has been declared the state’s tourism capital, attracting large numbers of visitors to Dharamshala, particularly to the Dhauladhar mountain range. However, he pointed out that several accidents have occurred in the past, as tourists often venture into high-altitude areas without adequate knowledge or preparation, resulting in delays in rescue operations.
“Our request to the administration is to regulate the movement of tourists heading towards the mountains so that, in case of any mishap, timely rescue can be ensured,” he said.
The association also sought the provision of sufficient and appropriate rescue equipment. Nahariya stated that while nearly 50 per cent of the members possess their own gear, additional equipment is often required during operations.
The ADM assured the delegation that the administration would consider their request and asked them to submit a detailed list of required equipment for necessary arrangements. He also said efforts would be made to provide equipment through the mountaineering centre in McLeodganj.
Further, the ADM assured that a joint meeting with various departments would be convened soon. The association said the focus of such a meeting would be to devise strategies to raise awareness among tourists undertaking mountaineering and trekking activities.
