The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Gangtok, successfully conducted a mock drill today at two locations the Deorali Ropeway and the Namnang Smart Bazaar area.
The exercise aimed to assess the preparedness, response mechanism, and coordination among various stakeholders in managing ropeway-related emergencies.
The scenario simulated two separate incidents one in which a Deorali Ropeway cabin got stuck midway, Deorali with several passengers trapped inside, and another near the Namnang Smart Bazaar area.
The mock drill began with Damodar Ropeways notifying the control room and mobilising resources. The rescue operation was carried out by the Damodar Ropeway team, during which all trapped passengers were safely rescued and transported to a medical camp established on-site by CRH Manipal for immediate evaluation and treatment. Teams from the NDRF, SDRF, DDMA, and other departments were present at the site to observe and coordinate the exercise.
A simultaneous response was carried out at Namnang Smart Bazaar, where the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), conducted specialised rescue operations. The drill was observed by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), DDMA, the Fire Department, the Forest Department, and medical teams from CRH Manipal.
District Magistrate Mr Tushar Nikhare, in his address, stated that the disaster drill was conducted in collaboration with the DDMA and Damodar Ropeway. He mentioned that the simulated scenario involved an emergency where a cable car got stuck midway.
He further explained that the drill focused on two key aspects firstly, the rescue mechanism of the Damodar Ropeway, which was demonstrated through the successful rescue of four individuals by their team; and secondly, the coordinated rescue operations by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF).
He emphasised that the primary objective of the disaster drill was to reassure tourists of their safety and security while using the ropeway. He stated that the administration, in coordination with the Damodar Ropeway authorities, has implemented comprehensive safety measures. To further strengthen these mechanisms, he added, the police, civil administration, and disaster management teams jointly conducted the drill at the ropeway today.
Further, the District Magistrate stressed that in such situations, passengers trapped inside the cabins should be continuously supported with psychosocial counselling until they are safely rescued.
After the mock drill a debriefing session, chaired by ADC (HQ) Mr Tshering Norgyal Theeng, was held to review the operations, discuss challenges, and record lessons learned to enhance disaster preparedness and inter-agency coordination.
During the debriefing session, all teams present shared their observations and offered valuable suggestions based on the mock drill. Officials from the DAC, NDRF, SDRF, Fire Department, Forest Department, Health Department, and Damodar Ropeway also provided their feedback and observations on the conduct of the exercise.
The Additional District Magistrate highlighted the importance of active participation by members of the DDMA and SDRF, emphasising that they serve as the first responders in the district. He noted that such exercises provide valuable hands-on learning and training experiences. He also suggested establishing a dedicated communication system for the ropeway, instead of relying solely on mobile networks, to ensure seamless coordination during emergencies.
He expressed his appreciation to the NDRF for their professional support and contribution throughout the exercise. In conclusion, he urged all agencies to continue working in close coordination so that first responders are well-prepared to deliver effective and timely rescue services in the future.
The mock drill was attended by Councillor (Deorali) Ms Sabita Pradhan, SP Gangtok Mr Mahendra Subba, ASP Traffic Mr Karma Bhutia, ASP SDRF Ms Tshering Yangzom, Assistant Collector Mr Bhawesh Khyalia, ACF Forest Mr Karma Sonam Bhutia, SDPO, Mr Mingyur T Nadik, SHO, Mr Neeraj Khatiwara, PI Fire Mr Bishal Rai, NDRF Deputy Commandant Mr Vivek Kumar, STNM Observer Mr M.K. Pradhan, Joint Director, DDMA Mr Sonam Lepcha, and the medical team from CRH, Tadong, along with officers and staff of DDMA, Gangtok.
The DDMA, Gangtok, which led and coordinated the exercise, expressed satisfaction with the joint efforts of all agencies and emphasised the importance of conducting regular drills to ensure readiness for real-life emergencies.
