Two 17-Year-Old Trekkers Rescued Near Machi Prabalgad In Panvel

Two 17-year-old trekkers, Gauri Ganesh Chandanshive and Utkarsh Bipin Singh, were rescued safely on Saturday after losing their way while trekking towards Machi Prabalgad in Panvel. The teenagers, residents of Thane, had set out on the trek when they became stranded in the hilly terrain.

They contacted the authorities for assistance through the 112 emergency helpline, following which a coordinated operation was launched by the Panvel Taluka police, local villagers, and volunteers from Nature Friends-Panvel and HELP Foundation.

Beat marshals from Panvel Taluka police station, along with police constables Amar Bhalsingh and Pradeep Popate, immediately launched efforts to trace the teenagers. Under the guidance of Senior Police Inspector Gajanan Ghadge, Police Sub-Inspectors Abhijit Vharamble and Vasekar coordinated the rescue operation.

Local residents Navnath Pardhi and Harishchandra Pardhi from Machi Prabalgad village, along with police personnel and volunteers, joined the search operation. The local villagers' familiarity with the mountain trails and terrain helped the rescue team identify the likely route and locate the stranded teenagers.

Both teenagers were subsequently brought down safely and handed over to their relative, Pratiksha Satish Chandanshive. The rescue operation was successful due to the prompt response of the police, local residents, and volunteers.

Gurunath Sathelkar, founder of HELP Foundation, warned against unplanned monsoon treks, stating that inexperienced tourists need to understand the risks involved in trekking through the Sahyadri, particularly during the monsoon. He emphasized the importance of taking guidance from local villagers or experienced trekkers instead of venturing into unknown trails on their own.

Sathelkar also advised trekkers to check the weather, carry essential safety equipment, inform their families about their route, and seek local guidance before beginning a trek. He stressed that adventure should never become reckless and that the mountain needs to be understood and respected.

The rescue operation highlights the importance of being prepared and taking necessary precautions while trekking, especially during the monsoon season. It also showcases the coordination and efforts of the police, local residents, and volunteers in ensuring the safe rescue of the stranded trekkers.

The incident serves as a reminder for trekkers to be aware of the risks involved and to take necessary measures to ensure their safety while exploring the beautiful trails of the Sahyadri range.

In conclusion, the safe rescue of the two 17-year-old trekkers is a testament to the prompt response and coordination of the authorities, local residents, and volunteers. It also emphasizes the importance of being prepared and taking necessary precautions while trekking, especially during the monsoon season.