Due to the ongoing weather hazards, authorities have taken strict measures with reference to trekkers in Dhauladhar. This article dives deep into the notification, for all the information you would require before putting your trekking shoes on.
Permissions required
Highlighting the importance of safety in such difficult terrain, authorities have issued guidelines regarding obtaining permission from SP Kangra before starting any trekking expedition in the mentioned area. If your destination is above 3000 feet, you might have to wait for a few weeks till the weather situation improves and we get a nod from the government.
On the other hand, low lying areas can be covered if the SP office permits. It is worth noting that the permission is not final, and can be canceled if any unfavorable weather conditions are reported by the weather department. This comes amidst concerns regarding a possible risk associated with snowfall and chilly winds due to early snowfall in the region.
This applies to trekking on routes near the local route (including Adi Himani Chamunda, Triund and Kareri), due to possible difficulties owing to the bad weather and dry winds. All this has been curated in order to ensure public safety in these harsh conditions, and people are expected to coordinate well in advance in order to prevent any disciplinary actions under criminal laws as well as disaster management laws.
Things to take care of
If you are planning to fly from Kangra district anywhere near the Dhauladhar range, the procedure for the security mechanism is well in place. Authorities are following the principle that prevention is better than cure, citing all the mishaps that have happened in the past. As per the District SP, any contravention of the law shall lead to legal consequences.
No time limit has been stated for the ban, which means that the trekkers will have to wait till we get any further notification from the government. Overall, the mechanism is in place in the SP office so that all types of precautionary measures can be taken with respect to the difficult terrain.
The Meteorological Department in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh is leaving no stone unturned in trying to figure out the actual weather conditions for the upcoming days. The SP office is working on the notifications based on their updates, for better adaptability. Further, it is the responsibility of the Kangra District Tourism Officer to increase awareness regarding the same.
Regarding Pilots
The restriction with respect to trekking applies equally to the paragliding pilots. The weather conditions do not support such activities and the need for added precautions has arisen due to mercury fluctuations causing a significant dip in temperature even before the beginning of December this year.
The El Nino influence is set to hit the Himalayan regions this year, further aggravating the situation for people engaged in trekking and paragliding activities. The authorities have also mandated the presence of extra security personnel to regularly assess the temperature changes and possible weather hazards even after permission is granted.
Past Incidents
As you know, this area has been infamous for its trekking mishaps due to undulating surfaces and fluctuating weather conditions. In 2022, teenagers could not make their way through due to unexpectedly high snowfall. The region with steep slopes made it difficult for them to climb the terrain.
The search operation took a long time. Foreign nationals were also part of a trekking expedition which culminated in the death of innocent people. All these incidents have occurred between the months of October and January, increasing safety concerns all the way through. There have even been instances of HP police asking people not to begin their treks without a guide because even seasoned trekkers have met bad fates in this range.
Bottom line
To sum up, treks above 3000 meters are banned, below 3000 meters (low altitude) require permission, and paragliding is completely prohibited till further notice, near the Dhauladhar range. Though leisure activities in mountain areas become even more popular as the temperatures turn low, following adequate safety guidelines should be the topmost priority. Even though the restrictions are strict, the essential services are not to be affected.
On the other hand, army personnel and other disaster management systems can still operate in the area. This is due to the exception clause added in the notification. It is better to check the official government website before planning a trek, to avoid any last-minute hassles. Safety is above all adventures, irrespective of weather and terrain.
Follow our blog for upcoming guidelines related to trekking and associated activities!
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