Making it Compulsory: GPS Devices for Trekkers in Himachal Pradesh
Mandatory Use of GPS Devices for Trekkers in Himachal Pradesh
In an effort to enhance safety during treks, the Himachal Pradesh government has mandated that trekkers carry GPS devices. This is to ensure assistance can be provided promptly should any emergency occur.
Dr. Shrikant Baldi, Additional Chief Secretary, emphasized this point during a video conference discussing preparations for the upcoming monsoon season with various district officials and departments. He reiterated that during adverse weather conditions, trekking and other yatras must be restricted. The importance of being equipped with a GPS device for emergencies was emphasized.
Himachal Pradesh, being a disaster-prone state, necessitates special attention in disseminating weather advisories and installing advanced early warning systems. Already, places have been chosen in Kullu and Dalhousie for such systems' installation, and relief and rescue bases of the NDRF will be established in Rampur and Mandi.
Dr. Baldi also urged the power authorities to create a robust system for alerting the public in the event of sudden water surges that could result in loss of life and property. This early warning system would aid in shifting and evacuating people from vulnerable regions and should be regularly monitored by the Central Water Commission.
To ensure timely information, the relief and rescue details would be consistently updated through FM channels, print and electronic media, and signs about satellite availability displayed in all vulnerable areas. Satellite phones have already been provided to all district headquarters, with more to be supplied as necessary.
In cooperation with Regional Response Centers (Local Units of ITBP), Indian Army, and local volunteers, the relief and rescue teams of NDRF and SDRF will be strategically located throughout the state. District Commissioners have been asked to identify vulnerable areas and make the necessary arrangements for clearing roads during blockages and removing uprooted trees to prevent damage.
The PWD has been directed to ensure road bridge restorations and cleaning of roadside debris before the monsoon set in, while the Irrigation and Public Health Department has been tasked with ensuring regular cleaning of water sources to avoid outbreaks of waterborne diseases.
Although specific information about GPS device regulation for trekkers is not readily available, it's prudent for trekkers to equip themselves with one for safety and navigation. Being weather-aware, planning routes carefully, and adhering to local emergency protocols will also contribute to a safer trekking experience.
Science plays a crucial role in implementing advanced early warning systems in health-and-wellness, including weather advisories, for disaster-prone states like Himachal Pradesh. Fitness-and-exercise comes into play when trekkers carry GPS devices for safety during their expeditions, providing emergency assistance when needed.
