Winter sets in, trekking, climbing banned in Lahaul-Spiti dist
The district administration has imposed a complete ban on trekking and climbing activities in Lahaul and Spiti district due to the onset of harsh winter conditions. During winter, the region experiences sudden heavy snowfall, which may pose significant risks to trekkers and mountaineers.
Rising concerns over public safety prompted Rahul Kumar, Deputy Commissioner and chairman of the District Disaster Management Authority of Lahaul and Spiti, to invoke Section 34 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005. The order, which is effective immediately, prohibits all trekking and mountaineering activities in the district's mountain ranges and trekking trails until further notice.
The authorities have urged tour operators, trekking guides and individuals to comply with the ban. "The weather conditions in the region are unpredictable during the winter. Chances of snowstorms and avalanches are high, posing serious risks to those undertaking trekking and climbing expeditions," said the DC. He asserted that search and rescue operations in such conditions are extremely dangerous for both rescuers and victims.
The DC further warned that any violations of the order will be dealt with strictly under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, as well as other applicable laws. Local police, the forest department and the administration have been tasked with ensuring that the ban is enforced with regular patrols being conducted in the affected areas to prevent any violations.
In a bid to ensure that essential or scientific expeditions can still take place, the DC clarified that special permits may be granted on a case-by-case basis. "In exceptional circumstances, emergency or scientific missions may be allowed, but they will require prior approval from the relevant authorities," the DC explained.
This decision aims to safeguard lives and protect public safety as Lahaul and Spiti experiences harsh winter season. The ban is expected to remain in effect until further orders are issued.
