Gyalshing, February 27 (IPR): Khangchendzonga National Park (KNP), under the Forest & Environment Department, organised a day-long training programme on rescue operations and high-altitude mountain sickness management at Yuksam today.
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| Experts demonstrate the use of a Portable Altitude Chamber (PAC) during rescue and high-altitude sickness management training at Yuksam under KNP initiative. (Image: DIO-Gyalshing) |
The programme was conducted under the guidance of Tourism & Civil Aviation Minister and area MLA Tshering T Bhutia, aiming to enhance tourist safety, strengthen emergency preparedness, and promote sustainable adventure tourism in the KNP region.
The training targeted trekking guides, trekkers’ hut chowkidars, cooks, support staff, and others engaged in the trekking sector. It focused on first aid, emergency medical response, and rescue operations along key trekking routes, particularly the Dzongri-Goechala trail.
Supervised by Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) KNP Bhumika Rai and coordinated by Range Officer Tenzing W Bhutia, the initiative forms part of preventive measures to minimise casualties in high-altitude areas. DFO Rai emphasised that visitor safety remains a top priority and similar programmes will be conducted regularly.
Medical specialists from Gyalshing District Hospital provided hands-on training in managing high-altitude illnesses, CPR and BLS techniques, oxygen cylinder handling, and emergency evacuation procedures. Experts from the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI), Darjeeling, conducted specialised sessions on rescue operations and the use of technical equipment.
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Participants also received live demonstrations on the use of the Gamow Bag, Portable Altitude Chambers (PAC), and improvised stretcher preparation. As part of enhanced safety measures, major trekking huts and campsites including Tshoka, Dzongri, and Thangsing have been equipped with oxygen cylinders and first-aid kits.
The programme witnessed active participation from tourism stakeholders, guide associations, local NGOs, and representatives from various departments. Awareness on H5N1 influenza and preventive measures was also conducted during the event.
Officials stated that the initiative marks a significant step towards strengthening safety protocols and ensuring responsible adventure tourism in Sikkim.
