Recently, rescue teams in Uttarakhand have been conducting a large-scale search operation across two trekking routes after two trekkers went missing within 24 hours of each other. Due to treacherous terrain, it is very common to get lost while trekking, so we have listed some of the important steps and how to stay connected en route while trekking. Read on to know more.
2 People Go Missing After Trekking In Uttarakhand
According to a report by Moneycontrol, the missing people are a woman from Nainital and a man from Noida, both last seen in high-altitude areas damaged by adverse weather in Uttarakhand. Despite slippery terrain and heavy rainfall that forced temporary halts, teams consisting of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), local police, and forest department personnel continued their operations on Sunday evening.
Search for a woman named Babita Pandey, who went missing on the Dayara Bugyal trekking route, began late Saturday night after the SDRF received an alert via the Bhatwari police post at around 10.25 pm. The search for the missing woman was going on through dense forests and trails leading towards Dayara Bugyal, located three kilometres from the campsite.
On the other hand, a high-stakes search operation is in progress in Bageshwar district for Vishesh Chauhan, a trekker from Noida who went missing near the Pindari Glacier. As per the reports, heavy rain and bad weather have been reported as the main obstacles to the mission.
How To Stay Connected While Trekking?
Trekking is both fun and dangerous in its own ways; trekkers should always be careful and prepared long before hitting the trail. Since mobile networks are often unreliable in remote mountain regions, it is always advisable to download offline maps and carry a GPS tracker. Another important option that makes you stay connected while trekking is to know when and how to use an SOS. As per a report by the Himalayan Hikers, SOS is a universal distress signal, and it helps send an emergency radio message. However, if you get lost while trekking, then using SOS is a lifesaver.
Also Read: Karnataka Announces Temporary Closure Of Trekking Trails Across Wildlife-Sensitive Forest Areas
How To Send SOS During Trekking?
1. Use A Satellite SOS Device
Many trekkers and expedition teams often carry devices such as Garmin inReach, ZOLEO, SPOT Gen4 and others to send an SOS if needed.
2. Phone Or Radio SOS
Some trekking missions provide walkie-talkies for guided and better communication. If you have mobile network coverage, you can reach out to 108, which is India’s emergency response number.
3. Traditional SOS Signals
If no electronics work, the best way to send in SOS signals is using the old traditional methods like light signals through a torch, whistle signals, or ground markers by creating an SOS sign using sticks or rocks or a smoke signal.
Also Read: Planning Kedarnath Yatra This Year? 5 Things You Must Pack Before The Trek
What are your thoughts about this? Let us know.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
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FAQs
Which trek is best in Uttarakhand?
For stunning winter snow, choose Kedarkantha; for vibrant summer blossoms, pick the Valley of Flowers.