Durga Sati, Mamta Kanwasi, Roshni Negi, all women, patrolled Nanda Devi forest for the first time as earlier only men were allowed to go on a long-distance patrolling.
Leaving all the justifications aside including the dangerous geographical situations, that allowed only men to patrol the area, for the very first time, women patrolled Nanda Devi at 14,500 feet.
Forest inspectors Durga Sati, 32, Mamta Kanwasi, 33, and a forest guard, Roshni Negi, 25, are the ones who have bagged the achievement for the first time. Moreover, they will continue to patrol the area even in the future. Previously, the work was done by only men officers.
The second highest mountain in India and the 23rd highest in the world, Nanda Devi, is located between Gauriganga and Rishi Ganga valley in the Chamoli district. Women officers usually went up to Laata at 11,150 feet but were always asked not to go further.
However, the scenario is no more the same now. The women forest inspectors and guard now go on to patrol the area while also collecting information about the forests and rare wildlife. They also monitor the water sources and ensure the safety of the territory.
Women patrolled Nanda Devi starting from Bhelta at 11,800 feet
A team of the forest department consisting of 12 members including 3 women had gone for inspection in June. They had trekked to Bhelta at 11,800 feet, to Lata Khark at 12,800 feet and then, to Jhandidhara at 13,800 feet. After that, they returned to Lata Khark to go to Dharasi at 14,500 feet.
The women officers were trained under Range Officer Chetna Kandpal.
A much-needed initiative required in every field!
Source: Times of India and Womansera
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