By Our Staff Reporter
Dehradun, 21 May: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami flagged off the National Disaster Response Force’s (NDRF) third mountaineering expedition, ‘Shaurya’, from his official residence here today.
On this occasion, the CM expressed his delight and extended best wishes to the NDRF jawans undertaking the expedition. He expressed confidence that the personnel would succeed in this endeavour and guide other mountaineers on the challenging track. Dhami also emphasised the state government’s commitment to establishing Uttarakhand’s adventure tourism potential on an international scale. Various adventure activities and sports are being promoted across different regions of the state.
The CM observed that the state government actively encourages adventure activities such as angling, cycling, rafting, trekking, and paragliding. Various annual competitions like Tehri Water Sports and Nayar Mahotsav are also hosted to promote adventure sports. He commended the NDRF personnel for their dual role in disaster management and adventure activities, making them an inspiration for the youth. He also reminded how NDRF jawans are always at ground zero during disasters that strike the state.
The CM also stated that the government is continuously working to enhance disaster management capabilities. Efforts are underway to equip the system with essential resources, modern equipment, and advanced technology. Training centres are being set up to improve technical proficiency, and an agreement has been signed between the SDRF and Pune’s Indian Rescue Academy. With central government support, Uttarakhand Disaster Preparedness and Resilient Project has been approved, allocating approximately Rs 1,480 crores to strengthen disaster management.
Dhami recalled that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had flagged off various adventure sports participants during his Mukhba visit to promote adventure tourism in the state. Under the Prime Minister’s guidance, the state government is working to make Uttarakhand a hub for adventure sports and eco-tourism. He also reminded that in October 2022, the PM had designated all border villages, beginning with Mana village, as the “first villages of the country”.
On this occasion, NDRF Director General Piyush Anand asserted that this trekking expedition would aid rescue operations in high-altitude Himalayan regions, empowering personnel to handle difficult terrains. He assured that the NDRF is always ready to assist the state, with efforts being made to reduce response time. He shared that the 44-member team will attempt to scale the 6,832-metre-high ‘Kedardome’ peak, passing through Dehradun, Uttarkashi, Gangotri, Chirbasa, Bhojbasa, Tapovan, and Kirti Glacier, navigating challenging mountainous paths and glaciers.
Among those present on the occasion included Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan, DGP Deepam Seth, Vice Chairman of Disaster Management Advisory Committee Vinay Rohela, and Secretary Vinod Suman.
