GANGTOK: The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Gangtok successfully conducted a high-altitude ropeway mock drill on Thursday at Tsomgo in close coordination with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Tsongu Passenger Ropeway (CRSPL).
The exercise aimed to enhance preparedness, improve inter-agency coordination, and strengthen response capabilities for ropeway-related emergencies in high-altitude areas. The exercise was also conducted to ensure the safety of tourists and strengthen the emergency response mechanism for any unforeseen incidents at the high altitude ropeway, a press release informs.
The mock drill had the presence of Nima Sherpa, Panchayat Tsongu, Tushar G Nikhare, District Collector, Gangtok, Mahendra Subba, Superintendent of Police, Additional District Collector, Sisum Wangchuk Bhutia, SDPO, SDM, SHO, officials from the Forest Department, Fire & Emergency Services, DDMA, Gangtok, Health team from Shipchu PHC, President and members of the Tsomgo Pokahari Sangrakshnan Samiti and the entire team of Tsongu Passenger Ropeway
As part of the exercise, CRSPL conducted a simulated ropeway rescue using various technical methods to evacuate stranded passengers safely (ladder and chair techniques).
This was followed by a coordinated rescue demonstration by NDRF led by Vivek Kumar, Deputy Commandant, 2nd Battalion, SDRF led by ASP Tshering Yangzom and Fire & Emergency Services led by PI Bishal Rai and the forest Team of Kyongsla GPU showcasing high-altitude response techniques, victim handling, and systematic evacuation procedures.
The Fire Department also conducted a demonstration on the Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) set, highlighting its use during confined-space and smoke-filled rescue scenarios. Thereafter, the District Collector congratulated the efforts of all the concerned agencies involved in the conduct of such a mock drill situated at an altitude of 13,300 ft. The District Administration appreciated the participation and cooperation of all stakeholders and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring public safety through regular capacity-building exercises and preparedness initiatives.
The mock drill provided a valuable opportunity for all participating agencies to review standard operating procedures, identify gaps, and strengthen synergy for effective disaster response in the Tsomgo region, the release mentions.
- SA Report
