The pair became stranded for three days at an altitude of more than 6,000m (19,000ft)…reports Asian Lite News
A British climber who was missing for three days in the Himalayas confirmed she is “back down and safe” after being rescued. Fay Manners, 37, and her friend from the US Michelle Dvorak, 31, were trekking up India’s Chaukhamba mountain when they became unaccounted for on Thursday.
The pair became stranded for three days at an altitude of more than 6,000m (19,000ft). They were airlifted down on Sunday after an 80-hour search conducted by the Indian Air Force, army and local authorities.
Manners shared a message on an Instagram story which read: “We’re back down and safe.” Speaking to reporters after her rescue, Manners said the pair had lost their equipment when a rockfall crashed into it.
“We were pulling up my bag and she had her bag on her,” she said. “And the rockfall came, cut the rope with the other bag, and it just went down the entire mountain.”
She added: “We sent a message to our friends and they knew. I live in France and that team is also coming from France… and so they had told [the rescuers], ‘Oh they are stuck on the mountain, they have no equipment. So then this other team [of mountaineers] came to help us.”
In a statement on X, the Indian Air Force said: “The rescue of two foreign (US & UK) mountaineers from Chaukhamba III trek in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli is a testament to the resilience and skill of the Indian Air Force, along with the collaborative efforts of SDRF, NIM, and French mountaineers.
“After battling two days of bad weather, the IAF’s Cheetah helicopter airlifted the climbers from 17,400 feet, showcasing remarkable coordination in extreme conditions.”
A French climbing party played a key role in rescuing the duo after the group helped them descend to the altitude where they were eventually airlifted from, according to the force.
Manners, from Bedford, left the UK to move to the Alps to pursue her passion for climbing and became a professional alpinist sponsored by brands including The North Face and Petzl. She recently charted an adventure across the Alps where she would climb and then ski down before cycling to another range.
“My ambition is to inspire women to pursue their interest in alpinism,” her website reads. A FCDO spokesperson said: “We have been supporting the family of a British woman reported missing in India who has since been safely rescued.”
Surrounded by lush greenery and alpine vegetation, Pelling is a haven of natural beauty. Its scenic landscapes and pleasant weather make sightseeing even more enchanting. Marvel at the beautiful waterfalls, especially during the end of the monsoon season, when they showcase their spectacular beauty…reports Asian Lite News
Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in the northeastern region, Sikkim beckons travelers with its serene tranquility and breathtaking beauty. For those seeking solace and rejuvenation, this place offers a unique blend of natural wonders, vibrant culture, delightful amenities, and mesmerising activities.Notably, Sikkim has recently made remarkable strides by becoming the world’s first organic state, setting an example for other cities. With its expertise in adopting 100 per cent organic farming techniques and sustainable living, travelers can take pride in supporting such an eco-friendly destination. Additionally, the region’s stunning glaciers and frozen lakes add an irresistible charm to the seven sisters.
Meanwhile, Gangtok, the capital city, is renowned for its picturesque views and pleasant climate all year round. Here, you can immerse yourself in the local way of life, with a plethora of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
If you’ve been contemplating a vacation that combines both conventional and offbeat experiences, Sikkim serves as an ideal destination to unwind and bask in the awe-inspiring beauty of nature.
Embarking on an Exploration of Sikkim’s Upmarket Street
It is essential to pre-book a taxi for your road journey to Gangtok once you reach Siliguri or Bagdogra airport in West Bengal. Making this arrangement in advance ensures a hassle-free experience as you travel from the airport to Gangtok. With decent road conditions, you can relax and enjoy the journey.
Upon reaching Gangtok, check into your pre-booked hotel or accommodation. Head to the main market in Gangtok, known as MG Marg get spoiled for choice with a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shopping spots once you drop off your luggage and freshen up.
Embrace Spiritual Retreats
Make your way to Rumtek Monastery, also known as Dharma Chakra Centre, which happens to be the largest monastery in Sikkim. It features a beautiful shrine temple and a monastery where monks spread the teachings of Lord Buddha worldwide. Surrounded by lush green mountains, this spiritual haven offers a serene sanctuary for travelers seeking tranquility.
For a sumptuous holiday experience, consider booking a private car charter from the range of luxury vehicles available in the city. This will allow you to indulge in comfort, luxury, and a customizable route to explore the city’s finest offerings. Immerse yourself in the local life, culture, and heritage of Sikkim, making your journey truly worthwhile.
Embark on a series of Fun Escapades
Dedicate an entire day to a road trip to Tsogmo and Nathu la Pass, which marks the border between India and Tibet-occupied China. The journey to Nathu la Pass treats you to a mesmerising view of Chumbi Valley. Situated at an altitude of 4302 meters, it boasts one of the highest motorable roads in the world, adding a thrilling element to your trip.
The calmness and tranquil beauty of Tsogmo, with its glacial lake, add an adventurous touch to your day. The snow-capped mountains provide a panoramic view of Gangtok, immersing you in a hypnotic charm. Take a trek along the lake’s shores and savor local cuisine at the small kiosks.
Enjoy a Mix of Nature, Heritage, and Adventure in Pelling
Surrounded by lush greenery and alpine vegetation, Pelling is a haven of natural beauty. Its scenic landscapes and pleasant weather make sightseeing even more enchanting. Marvel at the beautiful waterfalls, especially during the end of the monsoon season, when they showcase their spectacular beauty.
Venture to Kanchenjunga National Park, located approximately 40 kilometers from Pelling. This park offers a fantastic day trip, where you can witness the blooming rhododendrons. Additionally, don’t miss the chance to experience the archaic Singshore Bridge, the quaint Changey Waterfalls, and the sacred Khecheopalri Lake, revered by Buddhists. To make your travel more convenient, you can request a helicopter booking that connects Pelling and Gangtok.
Immerse Yourself in the Cultural and Religious Significance of Yuksom Town
No tour of Sikkim would be complete without experiencing the historical treasures and captivating monasteries while indulging in the Buddhist heritage of Yuksom town. Situated in the sub-division of West Sikkim, this unexplored historical town offers a refuge for the mind and soul of travelers. Visit attractions such as Tashiding Monastery, Dubdi Monastery, the Coronation Throne of Norbugane, Kartok Monastery, and more while indulging in shopping for unique and traditional trinkets.
Before bidding farewell and heading to Bagdogra Airport, take a day to do nothing but immerse yourself in the natural vibes surrounding you. Embark on short hikes, take a refreshing dip in the Phamrong Waterfalls, and explore the village trails, breathing in the fresh mountain air. Take a moment to delight in the melodious chirping of colorful birds before ensuring you reach the airport on time, thus avoiding any last-minute hassles.
The Third Pole, which includes the Tibetan Plateau and the surrounding Hindu Kush Himalayan mountain ranges, is known as the “Asian water tower”.
Rapid global warming has worsened the water imbalance for almost 2 billion people in the Third Pole region — including India, Bangladesh and Nepal — where about 90 per cent of water is used for irrigation, a new study has warned.
This will lead to greater water demand in densely populated downstream countries, according to a new paper published in the journal Nature Reviews Earth & Environment.
The Third Pole, which includes the Tibetan Plateau and the surrounding Hindu Kush Himalayan mountain ranges, is known as the “Asian water tower”.
With the largest global store of frozen water after the Antarctic and Arctic, the Third Pole region, located in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, is home to headwaters of over 10 major Asian rivers.
The “Asian Water Tower” region has gotten out of balance between solid water in glaciers and liquid water in lakes and rivers under the global climate change impact, reports Xinhua news agency.
The rise in temperatures with changes in the westerlies and the Indian monsoon led to glacier retreat and more precipitation in the region’s northern part and less in the southern.
The spatial imbalance will alleviate water scarcity in the Yellow and Yangtze River basins while increasing scarcity in the further-south Indus basins, the study said.
“Such imbalance will likely pose a great challenge to the supply-demand balancing of water resources in downstream regions,” said Yao Tandong, lead author of the study and an academician at the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
The highest water demand is projected to be in the Indus basin, said Walter Immerzeel, co-author of the study and a researcher at Utrecht University in the Netherlands.
Everest glaciers thinning. Credit: ICIMOD
He stressed that this demand would affect irrigation, accounting for more than 90 per cent of water use across the area.
“Since this north-south disparity is expected to be amplified by climate warming in the future, adaptation policies for sustainable water resource management are greatly needed in downstream countries,” said co-author Piao Shilong, also a researcher at Peking University.
The scientists said they still need more information to help the public respond to the changes, such as comprehensive monitoring stations in data-scarce areas.
They also call for collaboration between upstream and downstream countries.
The jawans unfurled the national flag at last Indian village Mana at Uttarakhand, border areas of Ladakh, and Kumaon region in Uttarakhand…reports Asian Lite News
The troopers of Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) on Wednesday celebrated the 73rd Republic Day, 2022 at the icy heights of Himalayas with zeal and vigour, from the heights ranging from 12,000 to 17,500 feet.
The ITBP jawans also known as Himveers, unfurled the national flag in the border areas of Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh where at places, the minimum temperature is minus (-) 45 degrees celsius. The jawans unfurled the national flag at last Indian village Mana at Uttarakhand, border areas of Ladakh, and Kumaon region in Uttarakhand.
'Janbaz' of ITBP at the Rajpath on Republic Day Parade-2022
The ‘Daredevil’ bikers of the ITBP also showcased 10 different types of formation at the Rajpath during the Republic Day Parade. This is the first time that the ITBP showcased so many formations such as Lotus Formation, Border Man’s Salute, Fly Riding, Pawan Chakki, Horizontal Bar Exercise, Six-Man Balance, Arrow Position, Jaguar Position, Sentinels of the Himalayas and the theme-based Pyramid on ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ on the 75th Anniversary of India’s independence. A total of 146 personnel and 33 Bullet Motorcycles of ITBP will participate in the Mission ‘Daredevils’.
Raised in 1962, the ITBP is deployed to guard the 3,488 km of India-China borders. The terrain and weather conditions in the mountainous borders are full of challenges where the brave jawans of the ITBP remained deployed 24×7 to keep vigil at the Himalayan frontiers of the country. The ITBP is a mountain trained force and all its personnel are professionally acknowledged mountaineers. The Force is known as ‘Sentinels of the Himalayas’ for its greater role in the security of the highest borders of the Nation.
On 73rd #RepublicDay, let's listen to the ITBP Constable Lovely Singh singing a song dedicated to the nation:
— Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (@MIB_India) January 26, 2022
The Himalayan border guarding force has recently completed 59 years of dedicated service to the Nation. It has conducted hundreds of rescue operations as ‘First responders’ in disasters in the Himalayan region over the years.
