By Sami Ullah Malik Ph.D
Pakistan’s Hunza and Gilgit valleys are renowned for their stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, making them prime destinations for tourists. Every year thousands of tourists from across the world turn toward these regions to enjoy peace, tranquillity and nature. High above the serene valleys and towering peaks, adventure calls to many. Paragliding offers an exhilarating experience, blending the thrill of flight with the beauty of nature. But sometimes, even the most experienced paragliders can find themselves in perilous situations. As was the case, on 27 May 2024, when two German tourists decided to paraglide over the beautiful Altit region of Hunza valley. Unfortunately, the paraglider of Mr. Joule (German tourist) collapsed around 1230 hours at an altitude of 4200 feet due to malfunctioning and fell near a high feature, resulting in severe foot and leg injuries. Luckily, his fellow tourist was able to communicate about the incident through WhatsApp messaging to the local service providers. He also sent an image through his mobile phone to give the location of the victim. The call for help was received by the local AKAH Community Response volunteers (CERTs). Trained for such emergencies, they spring into action, knowing that every second counts. Mr. Ejaz and Mr. Slaman, who are AKAH (Aga Khan Agency for Habitat) active volunteers and part of regional search and rescue group immediately responded to the situation and quickly mobilised a team of 30 volunteers comprising of AKAH Community Response Team (CERTs), Rescue 1122 and local Law enforcing agencies. The team had numerous challenges ahead including bad weather, sharp cuttings, and inaccessible slopes. Equipped with specialized gear and an unwavering resolve, the rescue team started their operation around 1300 hours. During the rescue operation the team was detracting as the image sent by fellow paraglider led them to wrong location. Despite all odds and challenges team reached the victim site around 1830 hours. The paraglider was found conscious but severely injured. The team quickly assessed his condition, providing first aid to stabilize him. Communication with the Operational base was made to ensure additional medical support and further evacuation to specialise medical facilities. The paraglider was immediately evacuated to District health facility in Gilgit, and his current health condition is stable.
Tourism is at a rise in Northern areas of Pakistan, and it is extremely important to promote safe tourism for the foreigners and to encourage them. Keeping in view the expansion in local and international tourism, it has become paramount to promote, Community Mountain rescue teams. As they are critically important for spanning from the immediate safety of individuals to broader social and economic impacts. Community mountain rescue teams are
essential for ensuring the safety of individuals in mountainous areas, supporting local economies, enhancing community resilience, promoting environmental stewardship, and reducing the burden on national resources. Their presence not only saves lives but also fosters a stronger, more cohesive, and prepared community. Through their dedicated efforts, these teams make mountain regions safer and more sustainable for residents and visitors alike. In this context Aga Khan Agency for Habitat (AKAH) is doing exceptional work to promote a culture of safety among the locals and enabling them to serve their communities by providing them with technical equipment and knowledge to ensure safety culture and fight against global climatic changes.
The writer is Disaster Management Expert and recently completed his Ph.D in History and Political Science.
