By Chhetu Sherpa
Kathmandu, Apr. 4: The rescue centre of the Annapurna Circuit, one of busiest trails in Nepal, has not been able to work effectively, as was envisioned. Established about two years ago with the object of minimising risks and protecting trekkers and mountaineers within the region, the centre is currently plagued with budgetary issues.
On November of 2019, Korean Telecome, Korea's largest telephone company, completed the construction of the rescue centre incorporating cutting-edge information and communication technology at the main entrance to the base camp of Machhapuchhre in Annapurna. While its operation is handed over to Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), KT is responsible for providing financial support.
However, according to NMA President Santa Bir Lama, the Korean company hasn’t been able to provide any budget so far. “The agreement clearly stipulates that KT will bear all the administrative expenses of the rescue operations for two years after its establishment. But the company hasn’t been respecting the terms,” claimed Lama. The initial contract also states that by the end of the second year of its establishment, the NMA will be entirely responsible for running the rescue centre. “COVID-19 restrictions might have delayed the financial assistance from KT,” he added.
While 11 locals have already been trained to operate the rescue centre, hoteliers in Pokhara and the Base Camp will also be trained in carrying out rescue missions. As per Lama, the Annapurna Circuit has recorded one of the highest inflows of tourists this year. “Although we don’t have adequate budget, we will be making use of state-of-the-art technologies along with walkie talkies and drones and our trained personnel to be prepared for worse-case scenarios,” he added.
The rescue centre carries out its mission in multiple ways making use of different technologies. First, Infrared Cameras are installed to a drone, which can trap heat sensors from living beings to identify people lost or trapped in the region. If the camera tracks someone, a helicopter is then deployed to bring the person back to safety. Second, the centre uses eye-tracking system to identify lost trekkers or mountaineers. Every trekker is given a device so that the system can accurately track them. Finally, the drones are also used to carry food packages so as to provide temporary relief to individuals trapped in difficult areas before being rescued.
To manage the rescue expenses, NMA is eyeing to collaborate with the government while also collecting money via basket funds.
The association has been entrusted with the task of rescuing not only mountaineering but also victims of floods, landslides and other disasters.