Avalanche preparedness drill conducted

Excelsior Correspondent

Gulmarg, Feb 7: An avalanche preparedness drill was conducted at the tourist destination of Gulmarg by the Baramulla District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) to assess and strengthen response mechanisms for avalanche-related emergencies.
The drill witnessed participation from multiple agencies including the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Tourism Rescue Team, Snow Bike Association and other allied departments.
The exercise was supervised by the Chairman of the DDMA and Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, along with other senior officers. Sniffer dogs and a helicopter were also pressed into service during the mock exercise to simulate real-time rescue operations.
During the drill, emphasis was laid on quick evacuation, search-and-rescue operations and inter-agency coordination.
The exercise was aimed to enhance preparedness and ensure a swift and effective response to avalanche disasters, particularly in view of Gulmarg’s vulnerability during the winter season.