GPS device mandatory for trekkers in Himachal

Tribune News Service
Shimla, June 18

Trekking and other jaunts can be risky, particularly during adverse weather conditions. Therefore, it will be made mandatory for trekkers to have a GPS device with them so that they can be provided help in case of any emergency, said Additional Chief secretary Dr Shrikant Baldi.

Reviewing the preparedness of the impending monsoon season with all DCs and other departments through video- conferencing here today, the Additional Chief Secretary said it is necessary to pay special attention for disseminating weather advisories and installing advance early warning systems as Himachal is a disaster-prone state.

He asked the Public Works Department, municipal corporations and Panchayati Raj institutions to clean and clear drains, channels, nullahs in a campaign mode within the next 15 days.

He said power authorities have been asked to come up with adequate system for alerting the public living downstream to avoid losses due to sudden flow of water as this often results in loss of life and property. This early warning system will help early shifting and evacuation of people from vulnerable areas.

He said that the information regarding relief and rescue would be made available to public regularly through FM channels and print and electronic media. All the district headquarters have already been provided satellite phones and more would be provided as per requirement.

The ACS said that for relief and rescue, teams of the NDRF and the SDRF located at different parts of the state have been asked to remain alert. They will receive cooperation from the Regional Response Centres (local units of ITBP), Indian Army and local volunteers. Relief and rescue base of NDRF would be set up in Rampur and Mandi.

He directed all the District Commissioners to identify vulnerable areas and to make required arrangements for clearing of roads in the event of blockades besides ensuring removal of uprooted trees during the rains.

He directed the PWD to ensure restoration of bridges and clearing of roadside debris before the onset of monsoon while the Irrigation and Public Health Department has been directed to ensure regular cleaning of water sources to prevent outbreak of water-borne diseases.